Zhuzi Gate Power Plant National Historic Site Introduction
The Zhuzi Gate Power Plant, officially known as the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Power Plant Zhuzi Gate Branch, was built during the Japanese occupation to provide electricity to southern Taiwan. It utilizes the water power of the Laonong River as a run-of-the-river hydroelectric power station. Established in 1908, the Zhuzi Gate Power Plant features lush greenery and beautiful landscaping, with a Baroque-style three-story brick structure that emphasizes simple, elegant lines, arching gables, and rows of arched windows, along with oculus windows. This design gives the plant a more classical and warm appearance, in contrast to the cold industrial style, making it particularly unique within the traditional Hakka red brick courtyard houses of Meinong. The power generation equipment in the plant was imported from Germany at that time, and after a century, it still operates, serving as a living antique that witnesses Taiwan's century-long history of electricity generation. Consequently, the Zhuzi Gate Power Plant has been designated as Taiwan's first "industrial heritage" site and became a national heritage site in 2003. The electricity generated here laid the foundation for the modernization of southern Taiwan, and the discharge water has also provided significant agricultural irrigation for Kaohsiung and Pingtung. Tours can be arranged during operational days to appreciate the beauty of the century-old plant's environment and architecture, along with gaining a practical understanding of hydroelectric power, which bears significant educational and tourism value.
