Hidden Urban Charms: Four Ancient Japanese-Style Buildings

By MOOK Scenic Spots’ Chen Wenlin, compiled and reported
 
Taiwan is a place rich in history, marked by the imprints of its colonial past. The ancient Japanese-style buildings that have been passed down from that era carry a strong sense of time-worn character and numerous meaningful stories. These hidden Japanese-style old houses tucked away in urban settings have become special attractions for visitors.

1. The One Drop Pavilion

The One Drop Pavilion is located near the Hobe Fort and the Tamsui Martyrs' Shrine. Originally an old farmhouse from Fukui Prefecture in Japan, it was the former residence of the father of Japanese writer Mizuki Shigeru and was named with Zen Buddhist philosophy in mind. It was relocated to Taiwan to symbolize the friendship between Taiwan and Japan following the 921 Earthquake in Taiwan and the Hanshin Earthquake in Japan, becoming one of the representative Japanese-style buildings in Taiwan.

The name of the One Drop Pavilion originally honored Mizuki Kenji, son of the builder Mizuki Kakuzō, who inherited the Zen Buddhist ideals of the Japanese monk Taisen Deshimaru. Even an insignificant drop of water should be cherished, as a reminder to value all resources. It also carries a meaning of gratitude toward those who helped relocate the building—though their individual contributions may have been small like a single drop of water, together they amassed enough strength to complete this cross-border relocation project. The pavilion features a variety of window and door styles as well as roof tile patterns, embodying a rich aesthetic of daily life.

【Info】
The One Drop Pavilion
Address: No. 30, Lane 6, Section 1, Zhongzheng Road, Tamsui District, New Taipei City
Phone: 02-2626-3350
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays and Sundays)
 

2. Zhang Xueliang Residence

Zhang Xueliang, a figure written into history, was not only an important personality in modern Chinese history but also a legendary figure who witnessed the development of the Republic of China. Following the historical “Xi’an Incident,” he was taken by Chiang Kai-shek to Taiwan under confinement for 13 years. During that time, Zhang was held under house arrest in what is now Qingquan Village in Wufeng Township. The Japanese-style old house where he lived has been preserved to this day and has become a historically significant building.

Zhang Xueliang played a pivotal role in modern Chinese development, influencing the direction of China’s progress through events such as the Northern Expedition and the War of Resistance against Japan. The residence preserves the living arrangement of the "Young Marshal" during his confinement and displays historical photographs to commemorate his 13 years of life in seclusion in Qingquan, Wufeng. The estate has specially restored staircases and guard posts to their original appearance, and displays many old photos depicting Zhang Xueliang’s life during his confinement in Qingquan Village.