Changhua Railway Hospital (former Gaobing Pavilion) Introduction
Zhanghua Railway Hospital, formerly known as Gaobing Pavilion, is located on Chenling Road, less than 300 meters from Zhanghua Train Station and situated in a street famous for its local delicacies. Surrounding the hospital are well-known dishes such as meatballs, cat and mouse noodles, and plain noodles. The architecture of the building deviates from the traditionally balanced symmetric design, resembling the shape of a large ship. The left side of the roof imitates a ship’s deck, with small round windows and elongated rectangular windows resembling a cabin. The lines of the building are simple, and in the style of architecture during the Japanese colonial period, it is quite avant-garde. It is considered one of the representative buildings of modernist architecture in Taiwan and was designated as a county-level historic site in its 100th year. During the Japanese colonial period, Gaobing Pavilion was the largest tavern in central Taiwan, where the entertainment culture of geishas and nakasi thrived. Along with the nearby hotels and taverns, it formed a lively entertainment area centered around Zhanghua Train Station, marking one of the beginnings of modern recreational life in Taiwan. Many literati and intellectuals held gatherings and discussed current affairs here, including Lai He, the father of Taiwanese modern literature, and Du Congming, the father of Taiwanese medicine. After World War II, the Taiwan Railway Administration purchased Gaobing Pavilion to serve as a railway hospital. This building, transcending time, holds significant importance in Taiwan’s cultural and railway history and showcases the colorful historical legacy of Zhanghua City, marking the lives of its residents. The first-floor walls, adorned with light blue square tiles, exude a vintage charm. The lobby displays old furniture and antique decorations for sale, with posters detailing the history and architectural features of Zhanghua Railway Hospital. The first floor currently serves as an exhibition space, hosting independent secondhand bookstores, wooden pallet home decor shops, clothing, and accessories. The tranquil and serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to take photos after enjoying the local delicacies of Zhanghua, allowing visitors to experience the nostalgic cultural sentiment of the area.
Changhua Railway Hospital
Changhua Railway Hospital
