Lush Green Bicycle Paradise, Seeking the Healing Big White Bear

Jia You Tie Ma Dao, this bicycle-exclusive path approximately 3,500 meters long, has now become a popular green tunnel for Chiayi City residents and tourists to stroll, exercise, and ride bicycles.

Jia You Tie Ma Dao, converted from the old CPC railway, has a history dating back to 1937 during the Japanese colonial period. At that time, for military transportation needs, the Japanese army built an oil pipeline railway here, specifically responsible for transporting fuel to military aircraft at the water airport. In 1945, it was taken over by Taiwan CPC Corporation, which improved the original oxcart transportation method to a more efficient rail transport. As times changed, the highway transportation system gradually rose, and the role of rail transport became increasingly diminished. Finally, this old railway was officially abolished in 2002, ending its transportation mission and becoming a period of silence.

In 2005, the Chiayi City Government obtained this idle old railway land from CPC Corporation free of charge, with the aim of transforming this historic corridor into a public space that could enhance the quality of life for citizens and provide environmental education. Therefore, in naming, it combines the names of 'Chiayi City' and 'CPC Corporation', and uses the homophone of '加油' to give 'Jia You Tie Ma Dao' the meaning of 'full of energy', which also foreshadows its new life to come.

Jia You Tie Ma Dao is currently planned with bicycle-exclusive paths on both sides and a pedestrian walkway in the middle. Its starting point is at Section 4 of Shixian Road in Chiayi City, extending to the Tropic of Cancer Astronomical Square in Shuishang Township. The entire route passes through the prosperity of the city, the simplicity of the countryside, and the openness of the fields, forming a picturesque and friendly environment. Along the way, there are also public restrooms and rest stations providing convenient facilities for tourists.

Recently, the most eye-catching new highlight of Jia You Tie Ma Dao is undoubtedly the three large 'Big White Bear' installations set up along the Xinmin Road Station, Nanjing Road Station, and Hongwacuo Station. The appearance of these art pieces adds endless fun and interactivity to the originally quiet green tunnel, allowing residents or tourists coming for exercise to take photos and check in with the adorable Big White Bears, creating joyful moments.

Especially at Xinmin Road Station, there is a YouBike bicycle rental service, and the design of the first Big White Bear incorporates bicycle elements, echoing the dynamic leisure atmosphere around it. Then, proceeding to Nanjing Road Station and Hongwacuo Station, you will have the opportunity to see the other two Big White Bears with different styles.

Among them, one Big White Bear's design exhibits the theme of 'sleeping', accompanied by a similarly sleeping cat, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. This also echoes the roadside trees, gentle breeze, and pleasant scenery; sometimes sitting in the rest area, one might really feel like dozing off and enjoying the tranquility of time.

The last Big White Bear is wearing red-framed sunglasses, dressed in short sleeves and shorts, holding a drink, standing leisurely on the viewing platform. In the background is a lush green rice field, forming an ultimate leisure scene, as if inviting all visitors to enjoy this simple and pure happiness together.