Ruifang Old Street Introduction
Ruifang Old Street, located in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, has a history that predates Jiufen. During the late Qing Dynasty, the discovery of gold mines in Jiufen attracted crowds of miners, and shops near the ferry terminal took the name Ruifang, as people traveling to and from the gold fields would frequently pass by these establishments. This area also served as a rest stop for travelers heading to and from Yilan, leading to the establishment of "Ruifang" as a place name. Ruifang Street and Fengjia Road, located behind the Ruifang Railway Station, make up Ruifang Old Street, which once thrived but has since declined. The old street features remnants of historical buildings that reflect the passage of time and the solitude left by decay; few old houses remain, with the Ruifang Hotel—once the largest hotel in Ruifang—showing signs of wear and damage. There are also two western-style buildings from the Japanese colonial period on Ruifang Street. The Liao Jianfang House on Fengjia Road is considered the best-preserved old house in Ruifang Old Street, featuring a brick arcade complemented by western-style pebble sculptures of the "Liao Jianfang" business, a reminder of its former glory. Ruifang Railway Station serves as a transport hub, connecting to Pingxi by train or Jiufen by bus. The area in front of the station is filled with many renowned food stalls and restaurants. On your next visit to Ruifang, be sure to stroll through the old street to experience its tranquil charm and enjoy the local delicacies.
