Revitalization of Taichung Station: The Only 'Three Generations Under One Roof' Station Since 1905

Taichung Station opened in 1905, with the wooden old station built in Showa 38. It was renovated in March of Taisho 6 to become the second generation, featuring a free classical architectural style with red brick walls and horizontal white decorative bands. The first floor of the station was made of brick, and the roof was constructed with Western-style wooden trusses covered with copper tiles. The central part of the Taichung Station building had a clock tower, making it a landmark in Taichung City at that time. The gable was decorated with patterns of locally produced fruits such as bananas, pineapples, and wax apples, showcasing agricultural products exported to Japan. The designer was Tatsuno Kingo, who also designed the Bank of Joseon in Seoul (now the Bank of Korea Money Museum) and Tokyo Station. With the opening of the third generation Taichung Station, it became the only station in Taiwan with 'three generations under one roof.' To revitalize the old station, two trains on the tracks were transformed into a café and a small shop, with railway ties turned into seating areas. Combined with railway merchandise sold by Taiwan Railways, it formed the 'Taichung Station Railway Culture Park.' Coincidentally, last month in Seoul, the old building of Seoul Station, built in 1925, was transformed into the cultural space 'Culture Station 284' amidst modernization. The last three photos show the old building's restoration and preservation, along with art exhibitions full of contemporary creativity, presenting a blend of old and new with contemporary artistic connotations. However, at Taichung Station, the two train carriages are styled with nostalgic items or barbershop poles, lacking historical context, which might make history or railway enthusiasts feel less impressed. 📍Address: No. 1, Section 1, Taiwan Boulevard, Central District, Taichung City 400