South Gate - Lizheng Gate Introduction
Nanmen, also known as Lize Gate, was completed in 1884 (the 10th year of the Guangxu era in the Qing Dynasty) and served as the main gate of Taipei City at that time. Its design and dimensions make it the most magnificent among the city's gates, built with stone sourced from the Dazhi area, featuring fine craftsmanship that has endured over time. The stone plaque is decorated with patterns of mythical dragons, distinguishing it from other city gates. In the early days of Japanese rule, the Japanese destroyed Taipei's city walls, ramparts, and the West Gate. Although Nanmen was fortunate to be preserved, it gradually deteriorated due to lack of maintenance. After the Kuomintang government relocated to Taiwan, they renovated the old city gate; thus, Nanmen was remodeled into a palace-style watchtower typical of northern China, losing much of its original appearance. However, the stone base and round arches were fortunate enough to remain unchanged. Nanmen is located at the intersection of Gongyuan Road, Nanchang Street, and Aiguo West Road, next to the Grade I historic site of the Tobacco and Liquor Monopoly Bureau building and the heavily guarded Presidential Office. With plainclothes officers and police stationed every few steps, pedestrians often feel compelled to hurry past, which is quite unfortunate. The next time you pass by, do take a moment to stop and admire this once-majestic gate that held the vital responsibility of guarding Taipei.
