Text / Compiled and reported by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Life Network
After the removal of the approach ramp of the Zhongxiao Bridge, the full view of the first-class historic site, the North Gate (Cheng'en Gate), has been unveiled, drawing the attention of 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 and memories of life in the area—people of all ages show keen interest in this site that feels both familiar and surprisingly fresh. Additionally, the Taipei Post Office, located just across the street, has also become a focal point for visitors, making the two 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 Scenic Spots Family, Chang Ying-ying)
The North Gate was built in 1884 as the "Cheng'en Gate" of Taipei City at the time, serving as the main thoroughfare to areas such as Dadaocheng. With the complete dismantling of the approach bridge, the vision of transforming the capital city was outlined, showcasing the urban texture and historical essence, and launching the Taipei West Gateway Project to revive the grandeur of the North Gate. The Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp, constructed in 1977, was built to resolve the traffic bottleneck caused by Zhongxiao West Road crossing the railway before the railway was moved underground. The massive curved bridge structure surrounding the North Gate affected the urban landscape, and now that the approach ramp has fulfilled its mission, 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 Scenic Spots Family, Chang Ying-ying)
Chronicle of the Zhongxiao Bridge Approach Removal in 2016:
The nearby third-class historic site, the Taipei Post Office, which faces the North Gate across the street, has also garnered attention. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Family, Chang Ying-ying)
The removal of the Zhongxiao Bridge approach ramp is the first step in the West Gateway Redevelopment Plan. Near the North Gate, aside from the Taipei Post Office, the Futo Street Western-style Building is also worth a visit. On the other side of the North Gate lies the former Mitsui Bussan warehouse, which is currently still under debate regarding its preservation. To learn more about the history of the North Gate and its surroundings, visitors can check out the “Info-Box North Gate View” set up at the plaza at the intersection of Zhongxiao West Road and Tacheng Street. From February 6 to 22, it will be open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, offering visitors and history enthusiasts a chance to view and photograph these memorable historic moments. This exhibition also looks back at Taipei's evolution over the past 40 years and allows people to witness the rebirth of the “North Gate.”
Just opposite the North Gate on Yanping South Road stands the Futo Street Western-style Building, which is definitely worth seeing. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Family, Chang Ying-ying)
【Info】
It takes about 5–10 minutes to walk here from Taipei Main Station along Zhongxiao West Road (via the underground mall).
※ 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