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The North Gate Regains Its Splendor as Nearby Historic Sites Become Popular Attractions

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 101 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — After the removal of the approach ramp of the Zhongxiao Bridge, the full view of the first-class historic site North Gate (Cheng'en Gate) has been unveiled, drawing attention from both tourists and Taipei residents. Many have flocked to the North Gate to take photos, and it’s common to hear visitors sharing their impressions of the gate...

By / MOOK Travel Family Tourism Life Network Editorial Team

Following the demolition of the Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp, the first-class historic site North Gate (Cheng'en Gate) has been fully revealed, capturing the interest of tourists and Taipei citizens. Many have visited to take photos and share personal memories and reflections about the gate, regardless of age or background. This seemingly familiar yet surprisingly captivating landmark has become a major draw. In addition, the Taipei Post Office, located just across the street, has also attracted significant attention, making both sites popular destinations as the Lunar New Year holiday draws to a close.

The North Gate regains its charm after the removal of the Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp. (Photo / MOOK Travel Family Zhang Yingying)

Built in 1884, the North Gate (originally known as Cheng'en Gate) was a major thoroughfare leading to Dadaocheng during the time of Taipei City. With the complete removal of the approach bridge, the vision of transforming the capital city has been outlined, showcasing the urban texture and historical significance. This move has initiated the Taipei West Gateway Project, bringing back the splendor of the North Gate. The Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp, constructed in 1977, was built to address traffic bottlenecks caused by the railway crossing on Zhongxiao West Road before its undergrounding. However, the massive curved bridge structure surrounding the North Gate affected the urban landscape. Now that the approach ramp has fulfilled its temporary role, it has gracefully retired.

The North Gate (Cheng'en Gate), hidden from view for 39 years, has become a popular attraction after re-emerging. (Photo / MOOK Travel Family Zhang Yingying)

Chronicle of the Zhongxiao Bridge Approach Demolition in 2016:

On February 7th, Deputy Mayor of Taipei Lin Chin-jung led officials from the Bureau of Public Works, Transportation Bureau, Urban Development Bureau, Police Department, and the New Construction Office at 3:30 AM to conduct a final inspection of the Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp. Soon after, he presided over the removal of the Taipei-end plaque of the Zhongxiao Bridge, bidding farewell to the 39-year-old structure. At 4:00 AM, demolition officially began, with hundreds of machines starting work simultaneously, creating a spectacular scene. Dust and smoke filled the air as the ramp structure was gradually dismantled, with plans to complete the demolition within eight days.
On February 8th at 3:00 PM, under the whistle of Bureau of Public Works Director Peng, the first segment was lifted off. A crowd gathered nearby to witness this historic moment as the North Gate reappeared on the city skyline.
On February 10th in the morning, the long-hidden North Gate was revealed, with the demolition progress ahead of schedule.
On February 11th, the full view of the North Gate was restored. At 8:00 AM, the Bureau of Public Works explained how the protective cover was removed, allowing the historic gate to shine again. Deputy Mayor Lin announced at the site that the “ironclad protection” had completed its mission.
On February 13th at 8:00 AM, the section of Zhongxiao West Road (from Chongqing South Road to Xining South Road) was officially reopened to traffic.

The third-class historic site Taipei Post Office, located across the street from the North Gate, has also drawn considerable attention. (Photo / MOOK Travel Family Zhang Yingying)

The demolition of the Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp marks the first step in the West Gateway Transformation Project. In addition to the Taipei Post Office, other nearby sites worth visiting include the Futo Street Western-style Building near the North Gate, and the former Mitsui Bussan warehouse on the other side of the North Gate, which is currently under debate regarding its preservation. To learn more about the history of the North Gate and its surroundings, visitors can head to the “Info-Box North Gate View” plaza at the intersection of Zhongxiao West Road and Tacheng Street. From February 6th to February 22nd, daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, it offers a chance to witness nearly 40 years of Taipei’s evolution and observe the rebirth of the North Gate.

On the opposite side of the North Gate along Yanping South Road, the Futo Street Western-style Building is definitely worth a visit. (Photo / MOOK Travel Family Zhang Yingying)

[Info]

Taipei North Gate (Cheng'en Gate), Taipei Post Office
Location: Intersection of Zhongxiao West Road and Yanping South Road, Taipei City
Transportation: MRT Songshan-Xindian Line, Beimen Station Exit 1.
Approximately a 5-10 minute walk from Taipei Main Station along Zhongxiao West Road (via the underground mall).  
Buses 0 East, 15, 18, 22, 206, 220, 220 (express), 232, 247, 247 (mountain loop), 257 to Bo'ai Road / Taipei Post Office Station, then walk to the site.
※ Taipei North Gate is a National First-Class Historic Site; Taipei Post Office is a National Third-Class Historic Site


Futo Street Western-style Building
Address: No. 26, Yanping South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
※ Futo Street Western-style Building is a Taipei City Designated Historic Site
 
 

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