Chiayi Railway Station Introduction
Historical Significance: The train station features an eclectic architectural style with a reinforced concrete structure, showcasing a symmetrical classical design that exhibits simplified gable ends and geometric patterns, along with a clean horizontal modernity. The Chiayi Train Station serves as a gateway to Chiayi City and is closely linked to the city's development. Since the opening of the trunk rail line, it has become a regional transportation hub, central to urban development, with the station building standing as a significant public structure with historical importance. Zhongshan Road starts at the train station and leads directly to Chiayi Park, running east to west, and is known as "Datong." The areas nearby regard Chiayi Train Station as their entrance, marking the geographical center of the city. During the fifty years of Japanese rule in Taiwan, the trunk railway was constructed to facilitate governance and exploit the region's rich natural resources. Chiayi Train Station spurred the city’s vigorous growth from the cross-street period in the Qing Dynasty. The trunk railway divides Chiayi City into two, with the front station flourishing in commerce, predominantly located in the southeastern part of the area, while the vast northwestern section near the back station saw minimal development. The canopy over the platform is uniquely crafted with I-beams bent to match the tracks. Once a multifunctional station catering to passengers, freight, sugar transport, and materials, its significant role cannot be overstated. Historical Encyclopedia: In 1896 (Meiji 29), a wooden single-story station was established in the style of Japanese tiled roofs and rain-sheltered walls. In 1933 (Showa 8), it was remodeled into the existing station building. Chiayi Train Station is a major station along the trunk railway and also serves as the starting point for the Alishan Forest Railway, making it a busy hub of operations. The station's spacious grounds allow for future underground renovation plans while adhering to principles of preserving original structures. The lobby and waiting area are roomy enough to accommodate the increasing number of travelers purchasing tickets and awaiting their trains. It is also the site where the elites of Taiwan were executed during the February 28 Incident in 1947.
