Shinjiao Elementary School Japanese Dormitory Complex Introduction
In the bustling Yanping Road of Zhongli, the "Renhai Temple," with a history of over a century, is always thriving with worshippers, attracting many devotees to pay their respects. Besides the long-standing temple, the cultural landscapes in the urban area are quite rich as well. The "Japanese Dormitory," located within the grounds of Xinjie Elementary School, has become the first historical building in Taoyuan situated on a school campus after its renovation. With the surrounding rich historical and cultural attractions, Zhongli offers not only Hakka culture but also a light travel experience to appreciate historical grandeur and local culture. Entering Xinjie Elementary School, there is an old wooden Japanese building on the north side behind the newly built Chaoyang Building. Its nostalgic and simple Japanese style attracts the attention of passersby. Built in the ninth year of the Showa era (1934), this Japanese dormitory served as accommodations for staff during the Japanese colonial period. During the reconstruction of Xinjie Elementary School in 2003, this more than 80-year-old Japanese house was discovered, and due to its good condition and preservation value, it was approved for registration as a historical building in 2004 after being submitted by the Taoyuan Cultural Bureau to the National Cultural Heritage Administration. Restoration began in 2005 and took four years to complete, preserving the antique charm that encourages many visitors to stop and take pictures, while others enjoy a moment of relaxation on the open corridor in front of the dormitory, experiencing leisurely moments away from everyday life. Currently, the Japanese dormitory is a single-story wooden structure with a sloping roof that adds variation in height and is covered with black-gray concrete tiles, enhancing its Japanese charm. There are courtyards both in front and behind the dormitory, showcasing its former grandeur, and the outer walls are well preserved. The floor and foundation have been raised about 60 centimeters, allowing airflow to prevent dampness and creating an open corridor, where one can sit and feel the living ambiance of old Japanese houses. This space is elegantly organized, making it enjoyable to explore. Regardless of where one chooses to sit, there is a strong Japanese atmosphere complemented by greenery along the corridor, encouraging visitors to linger longer. In spring, it transforms into a cherry blossom haven, not only avoiding crowds but also allowing visitors to enjoy a different cherry blossom experience. Additionally, there are explanatory signs about the Japanese dormitory, a time corridor wooden walkway, ecological landscape pools, and nearby attraction guides within the campus, designed as a space for community cultural activities and school teaching. This beautifully aged house has now entered daily life, eliminating any sense of distance. If visitors have arrived at Xinjie Elementary School, a short walk will allow them to visit the Shengjiting Pavilion, Renhai Temple, Jiangxiatang Hall, Yuanhua Courtyard, and Yishitang, enriching their urban exploration with cultural significance.
