Fu-Jiang Old Street Introduction
Fuguang Old Street, adjacent to Fuguang Railway Station, has a history closely intertwined with the establishment of the train station. In 1908, when the station, then called Bogongang Station, was built, it brought a flow of people and prosperity to this agricultural town. The old street area along Zhongzheng Road, benefiting from its advantageous location, became the earliest developed region of Bogongang, bustling with vendors and lively activities. However, as the railway was rerouted, this vibrant era came to an end, and now only the exotic-style Western buildings remain, witnessing the once-bustling scenes of travelers. The Lü Family Western-style building located on Zhongzheng Road is the most representative structure of the old street. Spanning five shop fronts with a two-story scale, the exterior of the building showcases a grand presence. The magnificent Baroque elements, a central dome, Greek triangular gables, symmetrical Roman columns, and intricate carvings reveal the owner’s affluent lifestyle. Construction of the Lü residence began in 1929 and took two years to complete, and it has remained a prominent landmark in the old street for decades. In contrast to the Lü residence, the houses on Xinyi Street appear more modest, characterized by red bricks and arcades, allowing visitors to experience the tranquil and simple life of the local residents as they stroll through, reminiscent of the Showa era.
