Shizhuang Dongzhamen, New Taipei City Introduction
The East Za Men of Xinbei Shizhuang is located in the Fengtian Village of Neipu Township and is also known as Huai Zhong Men. It has been designated as a national third-level historic site. During the Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong eras of the Qing Dynasty, many Hakka immigrants from Guangdong came to the Pingtung area to reclaim land. As they were outsiders, conflicts often arose with groups such as the Minnan people and indigenous tribes. To avoid disturbances and demarcate boundaries with other villages, four gates—East, West, South, and North—were built around Xinbei Shizhuang as defensive structures. However, after centuries of changes over time, only the East Za Men remains today, symbolizing respect and remembrance for the ancestors of the Xinbei Shizhuang residents. The East Za Men is primarily constructed of stone and earthen materials, standing about 7 meters tall, 6.5 meters wide, and 1.2 meters thick, covering an area of approximately 6 pings. Brick walls have been built on both sides of the gate for support. The inner side of the gate features mortises for door panels, and the roof is designed in a horizontal saddle shape adorned with red tiles. Additionally, on the side wall of a nearby residence in front of the East Za Men, there remains a Stele commemorating the restoration of the gate made from granite during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty. Although the text on the stele has become faded and unclear, it is a precious artifact. At the center of the gate's lintel hangs a plaque that reads "Huai Zhong," flanked by symmetrical round cannons. The origin of this plaque is rooted in historical events; during the 60th year of the Kangxi era, the "Zhu Yigui Incident" occurred, which disturbed the lives of the people. Consequently, the residents of Xinbei Shizhuang organized volunteer soldiers to defend their hometown. After the incident, the Qing Dynasty awarded merits and conferred the title "Huai Zhong" to the Hakka people, which is why the East Za Men is also referred to as "Huai Zhong Men."
