De Xing Li Old House Introduction
Chiayi County's traditional industries have historically been centered around agriculture, which is why traditional Minnan-style Sanheyuan buildings can be found almost everywhere. Among these, the checkerboard-style Sanheyuan settlement in the De Xing Village of Puzi City is particularly distinctive. De Xing Village, also known as New Ji Village, features Sanheyuan settlements that are all oriented north to south. These traditional houses with red brick tiles were originally overlooked as time passed. As modern high-rise buildings emerged around them over the years, these checkerboard-style Sanheyuan settlements became intriguingly incongruous. Later, the elder residents of the De Xing community decided to revamp the neighborhood, planting flowers and greening the facades. Consequently, De Xing Village is regarded as the first community in Chiayi County to integrate renovation and alley planning efforts. The entire village cooperated, with residents of all ages working together to preserve and beautify the three east-west and four north-south alleys, as well as the 112 traditional five-bay Sanheyuan houses. Today, the originally styled checkerboard Sanheyuan settlement has transformed into a treasured gem of the community, rich in cultural ambiance. It attracts countless tourists, students and teachers from architecture-related fields, civic groups, and cultural workers each year. In 2004, it was also awarded the Excellent Community title by the Ministry of the Interior in its community development evaluation, which is a great source of pride for the residents of De Xing Village.
