The Zhutian Star on Pingtung’s Bicycle National Route Opens with Free Bike Rentals

 

The 4.4-kilometer-long Pingtung Bicycle National Route “Zhutian Star” was officially launched last Saturday (the 12th), passing through Yongfeng Village, Futian Village, Lüfeng Village, Xishi Village, and Tiaodi Village in Zhutian Township. The Pingtung County Government spent two years developing the route, including public art installations, landscape design, greening, family recreation areas, a croquet court, basketball court, laundry area, and remote-controlled car field, all of which enrich the experience of cycling along the national route.

Pingtung County Magistrate Tsao Chi-hung stated that the Zhutian Star is close to 16 villages in Zhutian and Neipu Townships, making it highly connected to local life. It is not just a bike path, but also a community sports center — a “wellness village without walls.” He also encouraged local flower growers to plant orchids or the county flower Bougainvillea along the Zhutian Star. Visitors can cycle, exercise, take walks, and enjoy the flowers. With further planning such as installing Phalaenopsis and Phalaenopsis orchid waterfalls and organizing a flower festival on the bicycle route, it could certainly rival the Taipei Flower Expo.

The public art, planned by the Cultural Affairs Bureau, centers around Pingtung’s rural scenery, culture, and cycling culture. Five artists were invited to create artworks along the Zhutian Star. One piece, “Spinning Iron Horse,” combines the 1817 invention of the bicycle by a German baron and the 1834 invention of the zoetrope by a British mathematician. On the opening day of the bicycle route, as Magistrate Tsao rode a vintage-style bicycle, patterns inside the zoetrope spun continuously, creating the effect of a small animated film that amazed the crowd, prompting many to line up for a try.

 

In addition, the organizers provided 150 bicycles for free rides at the Happiness Rainbow Bridge in the County Sports Park and at Xishi Railway Station, allowing the public to experience the Zhutian Star. Three family recreation areas along the route have been especially popular with both kids and adults, drawing huge crowds. The market square also featured community talent shows, street performances, and a lively handmade market with 60 booths offering Hakka specialty foods, crafts, local agricultural products, and curated gifts — a vibrant and exciting scene.

 

 

● Read more: 2-Day Pingtung Active Cycling & Lifestyle Tour

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