Gueishan (「Turtle Mountain」) is situated within the Zuoying Old City and obtained its name from its turtle head like mountain shape. The mountain has height of only 63m, and looks as if a giant turtle is extending its head, sipping water from the Lotus Lake. A walk up the hill treats you to a full vista of the city and the Old City of Zuoying.
► Gueishan View
► Beautiful view of the Lotus Lake from the Big and Small Gueishan
The currently surviving fortress of the Zuoying Old City extends from a northeastern to southeastern direction, mimicking that of the Gueishan topology. The purpose of the fortress is to boost defensive capabilities from a heightened position. The main gate of the old city is the South Gate, which is the main doorway to Takao (old name of Kaohsiung) and is situated at the southern end of the fortress.
► The North Gate
The East gate is situated at the middle point of the Eastern wall, and leads to the New City of Fengshan. The West Gate connects to Snake Mountain and Dagushan. The walls of the North Gate have two alcoves embedded with the Gate Guardian deities. The material of the walls is limestone filled with dirt in the middle, with a foundation about 3 feet deep.
► The East Gate