1. Introduction

“Erbashui” is the ancient name of Ershui, which refers to present-day Changhua County Ershui Township, located on the western side of Bagua Mt., and is a township next to the mountain. There are many different views and explanations about the origins of “Erbashui.” Based on a lot of literature, some say that the name comes from the shape of rivers, and others say that it was named for the area’s hydraulic facilities – Babao Canal. Another view is that it sounds like the local pronunciation for river. In sum, regardless of the actual name source, it is possible to be sure that “rivers” and “hydraulic engineering” are important elements and elements for the lives of Ershui Township residents.

Photo: Ancient map of Ershui Township.　(Source of image: Tsung-pao Lai,”Beauty of Ershui”)

Ershui Township has the famous hydraulic engineering work, Babao Canal. This is a canal constructed from Jhuoshuei River, the mother of Changhua County. It irrigates Changhua Plains and other agricultural areas in central Taiwan, covering a large region, and Ershui Township is located here as well. The source of Babao Canal is located in Ershui Township Yuanchuan Village, or the slope at the site of Ershui Junior High School, known in the past as “Bitsaitou,” gained its name because it is shaped like the nose of a dragon. When Babao Canal was first being constructed, Shih-bang Shih was the leader and called upon many people to work for their livelihood. However, there were problems in the process. When no one knew what to do, suddenly a man appeared to tell them what to do. The construction of Babao Canal could then be completed. However, the man did not leave his name; people called him “Lin Siansheng,” constructing “Linsiansheng Temple” to commemorate him.

Photo: Distribution of ancient Babao area.　(Source of image: Tsung-pao Lai,”Beauty of Ershui”)

Photo: Bitsaitou.　(Source of image: Tsung-pao Lai,”Beauty of Ershui”)

On the second weekend of every November, Ershui Township has a unique festival called the “Water Running Festival,” which generally lasts for two days with the main worship events on Saturday. Water Running Festival comes from the people’s remembrance of the ancestors who opened Babao Canal, “drinking water and thinking of its source” is the main theme and significance. Thus, each year Ershui Township holds the “Water Running” festival and events. Other than experiencing the feeling of running in water, they hope that their children and grandchildren will remember the contributions of ancestors while continuing their hardworking spirit. At the same time, before the Water Running ritual, celebrations such as gratitude ritual and canal head ritual have beautiful rhymes in the incantations, becoming a part of the living art. This is the unique “water culture” of Ershui Township accentuates the intimate relationship between the villagers and water.

Photo: Current map of the community in Ershui Township.　(Source: Ershui Township Household Registration Office Website)