Hua Zhai Settlement (Zhongshe Village) Introduction
Huazhai Settlement is one of the most well-preserved traditional settlements in the Penghu area. More than 300 years ago, Han immigrants moved here. The ancestors observed the terrain, surrounded by hills, resembling petals encircling a flower center. They cultivated the land and built houses near the flower center (the top of Shanzaiwei), hence the name "Huazhai." After Taiwan’s recovery, it was renamed "Zhongshe" village due to its geographical location in the center of the four villages of Wang'an Township. Due to population outflow, ancient houses gradually fell into disrepair. In 2005, the residents of Huazhai established the "Taiwan Huazhai Settlement Ancient House Preservation Association" to draw government attention. Subsequently, the Penghu County Government declared it as "Wang'an Huazhai Settlement" and further applied to the Ministry of Culture for registration as an "important settlement." Currently, plans for further development are being formulated. Among the cluster of ancient houses in Huazhai, the most prominent is the Zeng family's residence, featuring windows shaped like scrolls that resemble Microsoft’s registered trademark, as well as a window grille made of exposed red bricks shaped like the character "Zeng," akin to a playful passcode for starting up. This was funded and restored by the descendants of the Zeng family, preserving their ancestral heritage, which is admirable. The star attraction is the quote from the advertisement "Brewed Coffee - Penghu Edition": "Looking back at the youthful steps not far away, looking forward, the flavor of life is even more fragrant, gazing at the truth of life." The sound of a piano accompanies the laughter of children, with light and dancers' steps intertwining. Windmills, ancient houses, green trees, and cosmos reflect the vibrant colors of Penghu—clear blue seas, blue skies, red flowers, and white waves. The "Canon EOS 650D - Penghu Edition" advertisement captures the interplay of light and shadows in alleys and among ancient houses, making it one of the favorite scenes for photographers to capture.
Wang'an Chungshe
The Traditional Huichuan Old House
