In response to the overarching goal of balanced national land development, the government has been enhancing efforts in land conservation, ecological preservation, and the implementation of biodiversity strategies. In recent years, special emphasis has been placed on the preservation and restoration of green and blue ecological corridors. These initiatives aim to systematically integrate landscape, ecology, and culture by promoting non-motorized linear spaces—commonly referred to as “greenways” which encourage the public to engage in healthy and environmentally friendly recreational activities. By traversing these greenways, citizens are offered a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Taiwan’s natural and cultural heritage. This experience fosters not only a sense of historical reflection and a deeper appreciation for the contributions of past generations but also strengthens the collective commitment to cherish this land.

Following the National Greenway policy promoted by the National Development Council, the Irrigation Agency under the Ministry of Agriculture has planned and implemented the “Taiwan National Greenway” centered on the vital agricultural infrastructure—irrigation canals. The greenway spans a total length of 88 kilometers, starting from the Irrigation Heritage Museum under the Yunlin Management Office in the north, and ending at the Distributary Work Station of the Chianan Management Office in the south. The route covers the Chianan Main Canal, Zhuoshui Main Line, and Northern Main Line, traversing Yunlin County, Chiayi County, and Tainan City.

Running alongside the canal system, the greenway winds through Yunlin County, a key agricultural region, and the Chianan Plain also known as Taiwan’s granary. This area encompasses approximately 150,000 hectares and is one of the earliest developed regions in Taiwan, rich in cultural and historical significance. Along the “Taiwan National Greenway”, the greenway connects diverse landscape, cultural landmarks, and historical sites, including the Xingang Fengtian Temple, the Linchupi Kapok Road in Baihe, the Wushantou Reservoir, and the Yoichi Hatta Memorial Hall. Numerous water conservancy facilities along the way offer insight into the challenges and achievements of water diversion and irrigation in the region. In addition to enhancing tourism and recreational opportunities, the greenway also serves as an effective platform for environmental education. Designed as a non-motorized pathway for walking and cycling, it promotes low-emission, low-pollution travel aligned with global environmental values such as carbon reduction and sustainability.

In May 2021, the completed planning for the “Taiwan National Greenway” was officially contracted out for construction, with work commencing in June. Within six months, the project was completed. To emphasize the significance of the greenway, a dedicated website was developed. In conjunction with Arbor Day celebrations, a launch ceremony and tree-planting event were held in 2022 to promote the greenway and to reaffirm the government’s commitment to land conservation and the diversification of healthy, recreational tourism for the public.

The “Taiwan National Greenway” was constructed along the embankments of the Chianan Main Canal. Following the completion of the primary infrastructure, additional improvements were carried out in coordination with ongoing canal system upgrades, including the development and enhancement of rest areas and shared-route segments. Rerouted paths were re-evaluated and upgraded into dedicated lanes, totaling 7.15 kilometers in length. Furthermore, the cycling path was extended from Guantian District in Tainan City southward to Xinshi District, creating a direct connection with the Shan-Hai-Zun Greenway. With this extension, the total length of the Taiwan National Greenway now reaches approximately 105 kilometers.