Shengxing Pottery Workshop (Formerly Shiliufen Cultural Center) Introduction
With the sound of the steam train, the train slowly glides into the station, where many people arrive and many leave; some gather, and others part ways. The platform always plays witness to different stories. At the station, the voices of vendors calling out, the chatter of travelers, and the sounds of departing trains filled the air. Now, these sounds have faded into silence, leaving behind only the echoes of past visitors' laughter. This is the Sixteen份 Cultural Center of Sanyi Old Mountain Line, also known as the famous Shengxing Station. Designed and built by the Japanese, Shengxing Station features distinct architectural elements; upon closer inspection, one can notice that the beams and roof resemble the shapes of yin-yang symbols and spearheads, while the eaves are serrated—a very unique design. It is said that these designs were influenced by feng shui considerations. Surrounded by nine mountain peaks resembling tiger heads known as Guandao Mountain, the design incorporated symbolic weaponry to ward off evil, aiming for peace and safety. Regardless of the authenticity of these feng shui claims, they certainly give this station a distinctive style compared to others. Since its completion, Shengxing Station has withstood numerous earthquakes yet remains intact. It has now been designated a County Level 3 Historic Site. The station's ticket counter, waiting benches, and railings still retain their appearance from the Japanese colonial period, while the station master's office preserves the scene as it was before the line ceased operations, exuding an old-world charm. The station houses many Taiwan Railways artifacts, among which a striking red electric route sign block device stands out, serving as a railway safety mechanism and ensuring passenger security. Today, Shengxing Station is an important cultural asset of the Old Mountain Line. This small station is filled with a nostalgic atmosphere, continually attracting many tourists and railway enthusiasts.
