Hukou Old Street Introduction
In 1893, the Taiwan Railway built a station in Laohukou, becoming a hub for transportation and economy, which boosted the development of the old street. Starting in 1914, a unique “grand formal building” was constructed, combining red brick materials from Southern China with exquisite relief sculptures, creating an elegant atmosphere. As the station relocated in 1929, the old street gradually declined, but in recent years it has been revitalized, showcasing its charm once again. Today, Laohukou Old Street has shed its old glitz and now sports a simple yet elegant red cedar appearance, but its unique nostalgic and artistic ambiance continues to attract countless literary figures and visitors. Although the highway runs parallel, entering Laohukou Old Street feels like stepping into a different realm. The wooden station stands in front of the Church, telling tales of the bygone railway days. The low houses, brick-red Baroque architecture, three-dimensional carvings of the front archway, retro-style storefronts, and well-preserved arched walkways all reflect the historical appearance of the old street from the early Republic era. The street stretches about 300 meters from the Church to the Sanyuan Temple and is approximately 10 meters wide, where each corner offers stunning and elegant architecture. Along the street, aside from local residences, there are also old clinics, cultural and historical studios, cafes, restaurants, and a unique Douzhi (fermented bean juice) and tofu shop, with the aroma of ginger-stir-fried intestines blending with the rich scent of coffee, creating a fusion of Eastern and Western flavors. While exploring, visitors may also step into local cultural studios for a deeper experience of the beauty of the new Laohukou.
