Changhua Railway Hospital (Formerly Gao Bin Pavilion) Introduction
Changhua Railway Hospital, formerly known as Gao Bin Pavilion, is located on Chenling Road, less than 300 meters from Changhua Train Station, on a street famous for its local delicacies such as meatballs, cat and mouse noodles, and plain noodles. The architecture differs from the traditional symmetrical and balanced design, resembling a large ship. The left side of the roof mimics a ship's cabin, while the walls feature small round windows and long rectangular windows like those of a ship. The clean lines of the building are quite avant-garde, especially in terms of the architectural style from the Japanese colonial period, making it one of the representative buildings of modernist architecture in Taiwan. It was designated as a county-level historic site in its centennial year. During the Japanese rule, Gao Bin Pavilion was the largest hotel in central Taiwan and was a hub for entertainment culture such as performing arts and music, forming a bustling entertainment area centered around Changhua Train Station, which marked the beginning of modern leisure life in Taiwan. Many literary figures and intellectuals, including Lai He, the father of modern Taiwanese literature, and Du Congming, the father of Taiwanese medicine, gathered here for socializing and discussing current affairs. After World War II, the Taiwan Railway Administration purchased Gao Bin Pavilion to serve as a railway hospital. This building, rich in historical significance within Taiwan's cultural and railway history, showcases the vibrant past of Changhua City and serves as a testament to the everyday life of the people of Changhua. The walls of the first floor are adorned with light blue square tiles, exuding a retro charm. The hall displays old furniture, antique decorations, and posters telling the history and architectural features of Changhua Railway Hospital. The first floor now functions as an exhibition space with independent second-hand bookstores, wooden pallet home decor, clothing, and accessories, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. It is an ideal place to take pictures and enjoy leisurely strolls after indulging in Changhua's local cuisine, allowing visitors to experience the nostalgic cultural sentiments of Changhua.
Changhua Railway Hospital
Changhua Railway Hospital
