South Gate - Lìzhèng Gate Introduction
Nanjing Gate, also known as Lize Gate, was completed in 1884 (the 10th year of Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty) and served as the main gate of Taipei City at that time. Its design and dimensions are the most magnificent among the city gates, with stone materials sourced from the Dazhi area. The craftsmanship is exquisite and has endured over time. The stone plaque is surrounded by dragon patterns, which is different from the other city gates. During the early Japanese colonial period, the Japanese destroyed the walls and structures of Taipei City, and although Nanjing Gate was fortunate to be preserved, it gradually deteriorated due to lack of maintenance. After the Nationalist government arrived in Taiwan, the old city gates were renovated, and Nanjing Gate was rebuilt into a northern Chinese palace-style city tower, losing much of its original appearance. However, the stone base and round archway were lucky to remain intact. Nanjing Gate is located at the intersection of Gongyuan Road, Nanchang Street, and Aiguo West Road, next to the Level 1 historic site of the Tobacco and Alcohol Monopoly Bureau building, and the heavily guarded Presidential Residence, where plainclothes officers and police are stationed every few steps, prompting pedestrians to quickly pass by, which is quite a pity. Next time you pass by, take a moment to stop and appreciate this once-important gate of Taipei that bore the responsibility of guarding the city.
