TAINAN (TVBS News) — In a bid to celebrate romance, the Tainan City Government unveiled plans Friday (May 9) for a "Double52000" love wishing pool at The Spring (河樂廣場), a popular urban plaza in southern Taiwan. The temporary installation will showcase more than 100,000 vibrant pink bubble balls, creating an immersive romantic setting for visitors from May 17 through June 30.
Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) emphasized Taiwan's unique calendar of romantic celebrations, which includes the Western Valentine's Day on February 14, White Day on March 14, the traditional lunar Qixi Festival (七夕, often called Chinese Valentine's Day), and May 20. "The date May 20, or '520,' holds special significance because when pronounced in Mandarin, it sounds similar to 'I love you,'" Mayor Huang explained to reporters.
Mayor Huang promoted the new attraction as a local alternative to distant romantic destinations. "The 'Double52000' love wishing pool at The Spring provides couples and spouses an opportunity to create sweet, lasting memories right here in Tainan, without the need to travel all the way to Rome, Italy," he said, referencing the famous Trevi Fountain where visitors traditionally toss coins to ensure a return visit.
The city government's press release detailed additional romantic attractions accompanying the wishing pool. Visitors to The Spring can enjoy a dedicated "Rose Photo Zone" (玫瑰花拍照打卡區) for capturing memorable images and try their luck at a "Happiness Capsule Toy Machine" (幸福扭機). The festivities will commence with an official wish-making ceremony on May 17, followed by a weekend love market offering specialty goods, desserts, and handcrafted cultural items on May 17 and 18. ★
