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:
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)
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