Jinguashi Old Street Introduction
Qitang Old Street, located above the Gold Museum, served as a commercial center for the early mining community. It was established during the Japanese colonial period as a settlement for Taiwanese to lease land from Japanese mining companies. As it belongs to the Jin Gua Shi Copper Mine area, it is also referred to as "Jin Gua Shi Ginza" or "Jin Gua Shi Old Street." The settlement was built following the mountain terrain, and there are still some residents living here. Unlike Jiufen Old Street, which has a strong commercial atmosphere and is crowded with tourists, Qitang Old Street retains the original charm of a small mountain town. Both Qitang and Jiufen old streets are mountain towns that thrived as commercial centers due to mining, but as the mining industry declined and the population moved out, visitors can explore the unique Japanese architecture along the street or wander through the mountain paths, experiencing the nostalgic ambiance of the mountain town. There are still a few businesses open along the streets, such as grocery stores and cafes, and although it no longer has the bustling scene of its heyday, one can enjoy a peaceful stroll and appreciate the tranquility that differs from Jiufen.
