Here is the English translation of the revised description of Toucheng Old Street:
📜 "The First Street of Taiwan's Settlement": The Mark of Time on Toucheng Old Street
Toucheng Old Street, historically known as "Touwei Street" and now called Heping Street, holds the prestigious title of "The First Street of Taiwan's Settlement" (Kailan Diyi Jie). This street is not just the starting point of Yilan’s development; it carries the legacy of the region's earliest prosperity.
The Former Glory of a Maritime Hub
In the past, Yilan's primary transport route was maritime trade. Heping Street, located right next to the critical Wushi Port, naturally developed into a bustling center for cargo distribution. Though the hustle and bustle of that era have long subsided, the street's decline has only made its historical footprint clearer. The historic buildings and old temples that line the street still quietly tell the story of its former glory.
An Architectural Museum of Blended Styles
Toucheng Old Street runs north to south, with Fude Temples at both ends acting like guardians embracing the thoroughfare. Walking down this street is like entering a condensed museum of Taiwanese architectural history. The buildings here seamlessly blend styles from the Qing Dynasty and the Japanese colonial period:
- You can spot traditional Southern Min style red tiles and bricks.
- You can admire the intricate carvings and decorative washed-stone techniques characteristic of Japan's Showa era.
- Other buildings incorporate Baroque elements like rounded arches and columns.
Each distinctive old house, weathered by time, stands as a witness to the passing years. A stroll through Toucheng Old Street offers an intimate journey through a fascinating chapter of Taiwan's architectural history.
