Changhua Railway Hospital (Formerly known as Gaobinge) Introduction
Changhua Railway Hospital, formerly known as Gaobing Pavilion, is located on Chenling Road, less than 300 meters from Changhua Train Station, in a famous food street in Changhua. The area is known for local delicacies such as meatballs, cat-mouse noodles, and plain noodles. The building's design differs from traditional symmetrical styles, featuring an exterior reminiscent of a large ship, with a roof on the left side modeled after a ship's cabin. The walls have small round windows and elongated rectangular windows similar to those found on a ship's hull, and the lines of the structure are simple. Regarding architectural style from the Japanese colonial period, it is quite avant-garde and is one of the representative buildings of modernist architecture in Taiwan. It was designated as a county historic site in its 100th year. During the Japanese colonial era, Gaobing Pavilion was the largest tavern in central Taiwan, where the entertainment culture of operatic singing flourished, creating a bustling entertainment area centered around Changhua Train Station, alongside nearby hotels and bars. It marked the beginning of modern leisure life in Taiwan, where many literati and intellectuals gathered to socialize and discuss political issues, including Lai He, the father of Taiwanese new literature, and Tu Chongming, the father of Taiwanese medicine. After World War II, the Taiwan Railway Administration purchased Gaobing Pavilion to convert it into a railway hospital. This time-transcending building holds significant meaning in Taiwan's cultural and railway history, showcasing the rich historical splendor of Changhua City and serving as a mark of life for the people of Changhua. The first floor features walls adorned with light blue square ceramic tiles, exuding a retro ambiance, and the lobby displays old furniture and antique decorations, along with posters narrating the history and architectural features of Changhua Railway Hospital. The first floor now serves as an exhibition space, hosting independent second-hand bookstores, wooden pallet home décor, clothing, accessories, and more, all arranged in a serene and tranquil setting. It is a perfect place to unwind and take photographs after enjoying the local delicacies of Changhua, allowing visitors to experience the nostalgic cultural sentiments of Changhua.
Changhua Railway Hospital
Changhua Railway Hospital
