Sanxia Historical Museum Introduction
The Sanxia Historical Museum is considered the best example of the adaptive reuse of an old building. Constructed in 1929, it was originally the old town hall during the Japanese colonial period and was the most representative red brick building in Sanxia, known as "the most beautiful office building in Taiwan." In 1995, it was repurposed as a historical museum. The museum itself is divided into two floors; the first floor regularly hosts exchange exhibitions, themed exhibitions, and various art exhibitions, while the second floor displays cultural relics and historical materials of Sanxia, contributing significantly to the preservation of local culture. The two-story brick building, spanning 70 ping, belongs to the same period as other buildings like National Taiwan University Hospital, the Public Sales Bureau, and the Control Yuan. A close observation of these red brick buildings that blend Japanese and Western styles reveals several common design features. Taking a slow walk here allows visitors to see the trajectory of Sanxia's development, explore past industries, and glimpse the former splendor of the old streets, as well as industries that once thrived, such as coal mining, dyeing, tea, and camphor. Beside the museum is an indigo dyeing exhibition center that connects with the Indigo Dyeing Park located behind the old street. Here, visitors can find indigo dyeing classes, DIY indigo dyeing experiences, and indigo dye products. Even a brief visit allows one to experience the charm of Sanxia’s representative folk crafts firsthand, with only basic material costs involved.
