Xizhi Old Street Introduction
Xizhi Old Street is a short stretch of Zhongzheng Road, approximately one kilometer from Xizhi Railway Station to Limen Street. Formerly known as "Shuifanjiao Street," it was an important cargo transfer station along the Keelung River and is nicknamed "Xizhi's First Street." The past prosperity has left many historical relics, and some of the street's buildings still retain traditional red brick walls and Baroque-style Western architecture. Significant historical sites include Niu Chou Tou Wharf, the Public Market, granaries, churches, and the remnants of Ai Men. There are also long-established shops run by three generations, including rice stores, fabric shops, pharmacies, and incense shops. The traditional style of long, narrow street houses is still preserved in some of the buildings along the street. The narrow entrance to Zhongzheng Old Street is directly across from the train station. The unique feature of the old street is that some sections maintain traditional architecture and lifestyle from the Qing Dynasty and Japanese colonial period. The past's glory has left behind many remarkable historical spaces, including Jide Temple (Mazu Temple), Zhongshun Temple (remains of Nengjiu Prince Shrine), the Public Market (remains of the Japanese-era Qixing District Market), the torii gate in Xizhi Park, Jian Shun Tea House, the Baroque-style Chen Wanqi Old House, Cai Ding Gong Hall, the Su House from the Taisho period in Japanese rule, and the Yü House with brick arches, all of which are landmark buildings that reflect the timeline of the era. As a result, Zhongzheng Old Street continues to showcase the characteristic style of the old days and remains a valuable cultural asset of Xizhi.
