Daan Forest Park, a 26-hectare urban park in the heart of Taipei, is one of the city's most important green spaces. Inspired by the area's historical connection to the old Liugong Canal irrigation system and the site's former place name, “Dawan”, this project was commissioned by the Friends of Daan Forest Park Foundation to reintroduce water as a vital ecological and social element within the park.

Named “Dawan Grass Canal”, the project seeks to create new environmental value through two primary themes: Water and Life and Water and Fitness. By combining ecological restoration with interactive public participation, the design enriches the park's landscape while encouraging environmental awareness and healthy lifestyles.

Key Design Features

1. Stormwater Collection Pond
A low-lying woodland basin was carefully created to collect and retain rainwater while preserving existing mature trees. The resulting pond supports water circulation and provides habitat for local wildlife.

2. Living Water Wheel
Inspired by indoor cycling workouts, the Living Water Wheel transforms human-powered pedaling into energy that pumps stored rainwater into the pond. The circulating water increases oxygen levels and supports a healthier aquatic ecosystem while encouraging public exercise in an open-air setting.

3. Water and Ecological Landscape
The pond is enhanced with native aquatic plants such as ginger lilies, cattails, and water lilies, creating an attractive waterside environment that highlights the relationship between water, vegetation, and biodiversity.

4. Interactive Public Participation
Integrated digital technology allows visitors to track the amount of water they have pumped and compare their contributions with other participants, turning environmental stewardship into a fun and engaging experience.

5. Public Art and Environmental Dialogue
Carefully positioned between trees and water, the Living Water Wheel functions as both ecological infrastructure and public art, fostering interaction among people, nature, and the landscape.

6. Interdisciplinary Innovation
Developed through collaboration among landscape designers, mechanical artists, and digital marketing specialists, the project creates a unique environmental experience that combines sustainability, recreation, education, and public art—an achievement recognized through multiple international awards.