Urban Future

In previous years, the splash area typically opened closer to summer vacation, but many residents are pushing for an earlier start as Kaohsiung heats up long before “summer.” As temperatures in Kaohsiung hit 31 degrees Celsius on Saturday, the city appears inclined to open the facility as soon as final safety approvals are complete.

The site, spanning 45 hectares at the intersection of Sanmin (三民) and Renwu (仁武) districts, underwent a NT$200 million conversion process beginning in 2016. The Liberty Times reports that this project involved the relocation of approximately 70,000 graves. While the park officially opened in 2018, initial public engagement remained low due to lingering cultural stigmas and an entrance route that required passing the city’s primary funeral parlor.

Officials said the project was recognized for its attempt to solve a familiar problem: how to keep a major cultural venue from becoming an island. The design aims to extend Weiwuying’s cultural activity beyond the concert hall and into everyday city life.

The exterior design follows a “soaring with the wind” concept, featuring streamlined contours intended to reflect forward momentum and urban growth. The design was guided by artist Lin Hsi-chun (林熺俊), known for previous public space and transit-related works in Kaohsiung.