Dehsing Village Old House Introduction
Chiayi County's traditional industries have historically been dominated by agriculture, which is why traditional Minnan-style Sanheyuan (three-section courtyard houses) are almost ubiquitous throughout the area. Among these, the checkerboard-style Sanheyuan settlement in De-Xing Village, Puzi City, is the most distinctive. De-Xing Village, also known as New Ji Village, features a Sanheyuan settlement with all houses facing south. These traditional red-tile houses were initially overlooked as time passed, and with modern changes, high-rise buildings began to emerge around them, creating a stark contrast with the checkerboard-style Sanheyuan. Eventually, the elder residents of the De-Xing community had a bright idea to revamp their alleys, starting to plant flowers and greenery to beautify their surroundings. Therefore, De-Xing can be considered the first community in Chiayi County to integrate alley planning and renovation projects, with all villagers—young and old—working together to preserve and enhance three east-west and four north-south alleys, along with 112 traditional five-bay Sanheyuan. To this day, the checkerboard-style Sanheyuan settlement, which retains its original appearance, has transformed into a treasured asset of the community, imbued with rich cultural atmosphere. Every year, it attracts countless tourists, architecture students and teachers, civil organizations, and cultural workers. In 2004, it was honored as an Excellent Community in the Ministry of the Interior's community development outcome evaluation, a source of great pride for the residents of De-Xing Village.
