A Centennial Banyan in Changhua: The Majestic Nine-Dragon Banyan Feels Like an Air-Conditioned Room Under Its Shade

▲The intertwined branches of the Nine-Dragon Banyan in Zhutang, Changhua. (Photo/Xiao Jie PaPaZou, all others below the same, please do not take photos without permission.), the same applies to the following; please do not take photos randomly.

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

NetizenXiao Jie PaPaZoushared on the community group"Travel Is So Much Fun!"about the must-visit Zhutang Nine-Dragon Banyan in Changhua, stating that aside from the Tongliang Ancient Banyan in Penghu, the Nine-Dragon Banyan in Changhua is the most spectacular old banyan he has seen on the main island—its main trunk is so thick that ten people can't encircle it together.

The Nine-Dragon Banyan is located under the embankment of the Zhuoshui River in Nantou Village, Zhutang Township, Changhua County. From afar, it appears as a sea of greenery resembling a forest, but it actually originates from a single centennial banyan tree. The tree canopy covers an area of over 3,000 pyeong, with its complex and interwoven branches extending in all directions. According to data from the Changhua County Government, the Nine-Dragon Banyan has a history of more than 200 years. Local lore says that after enduring prolonged typhoons and floods, it has finally grown into a century-old giant tree.

▲The main root of the Nine-Dragon Banyan in Zhutang, Changhua.

Netizen Xiao Jie PaPaZou mentioned that the interlaced branches form a natural sunshade. To protect the trunk, residents have enclosed some of the root branches with wooden boards, supported by frames and pillars to hold up the massive tree. A shrine for the Three Sage Buddhas has been set up under the tree for worshippers to pray for peace. On hot summer days, when walking outside leaves you drenched in sweat, stepping into the shaded grove instantly feels like entering an air-conditioned room. As such, the open spaces under the shade have become popular gathering spots for locals to relax and socialize, and the tree has also become a local landmark.

▲A shrine under the Nine-Dragon Banyan in Zhutang, Changhua, where people come to pray for safety.

▲The open spaces under the shade of the Nine-Dragon Banyan in Zhutang, Changhua, serve as popular gathering spots for locals.

Zhutang Nine-Dragon Banyan
Address: No. 60 Guangming Road, Zhutang Township, Changhua County, about 800 meters next to Tian Tou Elementary School.