Qishan Elementary School Introduction
During the Japanese colonial period, the Taiwan Governor-General issued the "Taiwan Public School Regulations" in 1898, which stipulated that children aged eight to fourteen could enroll in public schools. This marked the beginning of modern education in Taiwan. In the same year, Qishan established the Fenshu Liao Public School for Taiwanese children, which is the predecessor of Qishan Elementary School. From 1916 to 1921, due to an increasing number of students and insufficient school facilities, the school began to gradually construct a series of connected school buildings on the northeast side. The new school building featured two stories with stone arches, a corridor on one side, and a rhythmic facade created by continuous arches. The first floor had rounded arches, while the second floor featured flat arches, forming an interesting contrast. The entrance was emphasized by a round-arched porch that jutted out from the main building, with a balcony above it. In 1934, a grand auditorium was built, featuring circular windows, Roman-style arched windows, and pebble-washed walls, giving it an elegant classical appearance. Strolling through the century-old campus, surrounded by blooming flowers and ancient trees, the classical arched classrooms exude a charming literary fragrance, and the grand auditorium remains in use for various activities after renovations, despite the passage of time. While admiring the beautifully designed and refined ancient buildings, one can also reflect on and witness the beginning of modern education in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period.
