Tian Chang Di Jiou Bridge, A Romantic Testament to Timeless Love

602, Fanzhang Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan

A romantic suspension bridge

4.1

Introduction

"The Tengjhih Longevity Bridge" refers to a building consisting of two suspension bridges made of steel cables, with the upper bridge named "Tengjhih Bridge" and the lower bridge named "Longevity Bridge". These two bridges were completed in 1937 and are collectively known as the "Tengjhih Longevity Bridge". Before the Alishan Highway was opened, this bridge was the only access road to Alishan. The Japanese authorities built the "Tengjhih Longevity Bridge" to celebrate the birthdays of Emperor Hirohito and Empress Kojun. As the Emperor's birthday is called "Tengjhih Festival" and the Empress's birthday is called "Longevity Festival", the two bridges were named "Tengjhih Bridge" and "Longevity Bridge" respectively, and collectively refer to the "Tengjhih Longevity Bridge", which symbolizes a long and happy marriage for the Emperor and Empress. However, in reality, although Emperor Hirohito was not hung on the "Longevity Bridge" after World War II, he was responsible for the invasion of China and cannot escape blame. Therefore, although the "Tengjhih Longevity Bridge" has been given a romantic love color, we should not forget that it is a relic of colonialism. Moreover, Emperor Hirohito passed away in 1989, and Empress Kojun passed away 11 years later in 2000. They were unable to stay together as the "Tengjhih Longevity Bridge" implies.