South Gate - Licheng Gate Introduction
Nanmmen, also known as Lijeng Gate, was completed in 1884 (the 10th year of Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty) and was the main gate of Taipei City at that time. Its design and size make it the most magnificent among the city gates, constructed from stone sourced from the Dazhi area, featuring exquisite craftsmanship that has endured through time. The stone plaque is adorned with a dragon motif, distinguishing it from other city gates. In the early period of Japanese rule, the Japanese demolished the walls and structures of Taipei City. Fortunately, Nanmmen was preserved, but due to years of neglect, it gradually fell into disrepair. After the Nationalist government arrived in Taiwan, the government renovated the old city gate, transforming Nanmmen into a palace-style city tower characteristic of northern China, which greatly altered its original appearance. However, the stone base and round archway have fortunately remained unchanged. Nanmmen is located at the intersection of Gongyuan Road, Nanchang Street, and Aiguo West Road, adjacent to the Grade I historic site of the Tobacco Monopoly Bureau building and the heavily guarded Presidential Office. Police and plainclothes officers patrol regularly, making pedestrians feel inclined to hurry past, which is truly unfortunate. Next time you pass by, consider stopping to take a good look at this grand gate that once bore the crucial responsibility of guarding Taipei.
