Near the mountains and by the rivers, Sansia Old Street is one of the longest old streets in
northern Taiwan. It is a scarce complete traditional street with historical value.
Sansia Old Street generally refers to the southern section of Minquan Street and is about 200 meters long. The buildings have stood since the earliest period of the Republic of China. Various words on the building fronts represent surnames, names, and shop names, and their signages are very different from today’s. The buildings are equipped with magnificent verandahs, which are the most impressive parts of the buildings along this street. Their decorated archways are rich in culture and they play a valuable role in reminding people of the need to preserve historical relics. The outer walls of the buildings are built with red brick, while the inner walls were made of clay. The outer parts of the buildings are decorated with a variety of patterns, and in particular the second-floor windowsills, making them all more beautiful. There are many with traditional Chinese patterns, animal motifs, and even foreign patterns. Opposite Minquan Street is Daughter Wall, a smaller wall known for its unique styling, featuring solid, hollow, and framed styles of decoration.
(1)Before Rebuilding
Sansia Old Street used to be the most flourish street in Sansia area. As time goes by, however,
the old good time has gone. Besides, houses that damaged by rain and wind became dangerous buildings. Thus, the locals gradually moved away, and the Old Street was fallen and scattered.
(2)Renovation and Construction
In 2004, the government subsidized 3 hundred million to renovate the buildings and streets of
Sansia Old Street. To preserve its original style and features, TD-13 was especially applied.
(3)Inauguration
In 1911, Sansia Old Street was relaunched. Taipei County Magistrate Chou His-Wei wore
ancient costume as a jinrikisha driver and served as the spokesman of the Old Street announcing the reproduction of Sansia Old Street’s golden age.
(4)Now
The outward appearances of the buildings in Sansia Old Street are completely preserved, and
Old Street houses with 100 different styles form a unique feature. Besides, because of the locals’ enthusiastic devotion, the Old Street starts to have the gathering of cloth dyeing and traditional artifacts industries. On weekends, the Old Street always allures the public’s coming and taking pictures.