Ruifang Old Street Introduction
Located in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Ruifang Old Street has an even longer history than Jiufen. During the late Qing Dynasty, the discovery of gold mines in Jiufen attracted many people to mine for gold. At that time, the shops near the ferry terminal were named Ruifang, and those who went to mine would always pass by these shops. It also served as a rest stop for travelers heading to and from Yilan, with people often exclaiming they were going to Ruifang or returning from Ruifang, which led to the area being named Ruifang. The Ruifang Old Street is located on Ruifang Street and Fengjia Road, behind the Ruifang Train Station. Once prosperous, it has now fallen into decline, with scattered old houses reflecting the passage of time and the loneliness left by deterioration. There are not many old buildings remaining, and the Ruifang Hostel, once the largest hotel in Ruifang, shows signs of damage and wear. On Ruifang Street, there are also two preserved Western-style buildings from the Japanese colonial period. Among them, the Liao Jianfang Old House on Fengjia Road is considered the best-preserved historic site in Ruifang Old Street, featuring a brick archway along with Western-style stone sculptures of the "Liao Jianfang" business name, commemorating a once-prosperous past. Ruifang Train Station serves as a transportation hub, whether for transferring to the Pingxi Line or taking a bus to Jiufen. In front of the station, there are many famous local snack restaurants. Next time you visit Ruifang, make sure to stroll down the old street to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and savor the local delicacies.
