Taichung City: Urban History, Markets and Architecture

Taichung City tells its urban history through places that preserve different eras and functions. The old railway station, Sakura Bridge and former cultural and commercial spaces show how architecture, transport and everyday life have shaped the city. The Liuchuan River, traditional dishes and shopping streets add nature, cuisine and urban life to this picture.

Railway History and Urban Change

Taichung’s old railway station brings together several eras in one building: it was built in 1917 during the Japanese colonial period in a style inspired by the Renaissance of Western Europe. Red brick, a clock tower and intricate carvings define its architecture. After the new station took over its transport function, the old station was repurposed as the Taichung Station Railway Cultural Park. It is one of Taiwan’s best-preserved railway stations; here, visitors can see the old and new stations side by side.

Sakura Bridge also tells a story of change. It was built in 1915 as a bridge over the Lüchuan River on the then Sakuramachi-dori, now Taiwan Boulevard. It was rediscovered during work to restore the Lüchuan River. The city government preserved it in its entirety as a testament to urban change and development in the Central District. This structure makes the history of transport and the city tangible.

River, Markets and Streets

The Liuchuan River has clear water, where visitors can observe koi up close. Besides its scenic role, it is used for water storage and irrigation. This connects observing nature with a glimpse of the river’s practical role.

At the heart of Taichung Second Market is historic hexagonal architecture; the market also offers traditional local dishes. These include braised pork belly with rice, jute leaves with mushroom and meat soup, black tea and noodles. The specific selection may vary by vendor. The market can therefore be appreciated for both its food and its architecture.

The streets, too, tell stories of change and commerce: Jiguang Street was Taichung’s wealthiest district during the Japanese colonial period. Together with nearby Luchuan West Street, the shopping district on Ziyou Street and the electronics street, it forms a pedestrian zone with a wide range of goods. Lu Market is described as a weekend event on the platform of the Taichung Station Railway Cultural Park; its offerings include food, drinks, handicrafts and entertainment. Check the dates in advance if you plan to visit the market.

Places with a History of Their Own

Miyahara was built in 1927 as a brick building by Japanese ophthalmologist Miyahara Takeo and was Taichung’s largest eye clinic during the Japanese colonial period. Central Bookstore, also founded in 1927, was once Taiwan’s largest Chinese-language bookshop and a cultural and arts centre. After many years out of operation, it reopened in 2020. Many older Taichung residents remember its former role as a cultural venue.

Chang Hwa Bank’s headquarters is regarded as a well-known Taichung landmark and has been declared a municipal monument. Banking operations continue there, while a bank museum on the second floor preserves records and historical accounts. Wan Chun Temple is a more than 100-year-old Mazu temple with palace-style architecture and serves as a local centre of faith.

Taichung’s old-town area near the old railway station was once the city’s centre of prosperity. Because of its street grid and commercial streets, it is nicknamed “Little Kyoto”. The area invites visitors to explore historic buildings and try local dishes.

When choosing a holiday rental, you could start by considering what you want to shape your stay: architecture and urban history, or perhaps markets, food culture and river watching? Direct your search according to these interests and the experiences you would like to include in your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Jinhu, Jian, Xiyu Township, Dongshan, Jinsha, Jinning

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