By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
The park overpass connecting Gushan and Yancheng, after the completion of the new ground-level coastal road, was redesigned and transformed into the Sky Observatory, which officially opened on the 26th. Mayor Chen Chu stated that the Sky Observatory offers close-up views of the Hamasen Railway Cultural Park and the green corridor on Park Road, while from afar you can see cruise ships entering the Port of Kaohsiung. The old bridge, like the former railway, has been given a new lease on life.
The park overpass railway park Sky Observatory opens. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Government)
Built in 1976, the park overpass spanned the railway to connect Gushan and Yancheng. After the ground-level road was completed, it lost its traffic function, and the bridge approaches at both ends had long affected the cityscape. Though originally slated for complete demolition, the 38-year-old red arch bridge holds historical significance as part of Kaohsiung’s urban development. Therefore, the decision was made to preserve the main structure and transform it into the Sky Observatory.
The park overpass connects Gushan and Yancheng, rich in historical meaning. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Government)
The old harbor line, which operated for a full century, ceased service in 2008 and was also set to fade into history. However, the city government preserved 38 sections of the old railway tracks, transforming them into the “Hamasen Railway Cultural Park,” which, together with Yancheng’s Pier-2 Art Center, has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists visiting Kaohsiung.
The design concept of the Sky Observatory is such that during the day, it brings the white clouds from the sky down to your head, functioning as a sunshade; at night, it becomes a glowing new landmark of the railway park. Meanwhile, the cast iron expansion joints originally embedded in the asphalt of the overpass have been transformed into comfortable benches on the bridge.
The park overpass railway park Sky Observatory opens, becoming a new highlight of Kaohsiung’s railways. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Government)
In addition, the other end of Park Road has been shaped like the bow of a grand ship; also, on the tracks downstairs, 11 seats that can be sat or lain on have been arranged. From the Sky Observatory, you can overlook the railway cultural park and the green corridor on Park Road, and from afar see cruise ships entering the Port of Kaohsiung — a leisurely and relaxing experience.
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