Daxingli Old House Introduction
The traditional industries of Chiayi County have historically focused on agriculture, leading to the prevalence of traditional Minnan-style sanheyuan (three-part courtyard houses) scattered throughout the area. Among these, the checkerboard-style sanheyuan settlement in Dexingli, Puzi City, stands out as the most distinctive. Dexingli, also known as Xinjizhuang, features a settlement of sanheyuan aligned from north to south. These traditional houses, with their red brick tiles, were originally overlooked as time passed and modern high-rise buildings began to emerge nearby, creating a stark contrast with the checkerboard-style settlement. In response, the older residents of the Dexing community had a bright idea to revitalize their environment by planting flowers and greenery to enhance the facades. As a result, Dexingli can be considered the earliest community in Chiayi County to participate in alleyway planning and renovation projects. All villagers, young and old, worked together to preserve and beautify the three east-west and four north-south alleyways, as well as the 112 traditional five-door sanheyuan homes. Today, the original checkerboard-style sanheyuan settlement has transformed into a treasured gem of the community, brimming with rich cultural atmosphere. It attracts countless tourists, architectural students, civil groups, and cultural workers every year. In 2004, it was awarded the Excellence Community honor by the Ministry of the Interior for its community development efforts, a source of great pride for all residents of Dexingli.
