Hengchun

Founding and Historical Origins

The history of Hengchun is inextricably linked to the strengthening of the island's defenses in the late 19th century. Before its official founding, the area was known as Langqiao. A turning point came in 1874 when, following the historical events known as the "Mudan Incident," the Qing government realized the strategic vulnerability of southern Taiwan.

The construction of the walled city began in 1875 at the initiative of Imperial Commissioner Shen Baozhen. It was then that the settlement received its current poetic name, meaning "Eternal Spring," thanks to the mild and pleasant climate that prevails here year-round. Hengchun is unique as the only city on the island where all four historical city gates and a significant portion of the walls have been preserved to this day.

Key Factors of Development

Hengchun's development was determined by a combination of military, political, and geographical factors:

• Strategic Defense: The city was established as a military outpost to protect the southern coast and control the surrounding territories.
• Geographical Location: Its position at the southernmost tip of the island made it an important observation point for maritime routes.
• Climatic Conditions: The favorable weather contributed not only to the comfort of the garrison but also to the gradual cultivation of the land.

Early Cultural and Economic Character

Initially, Hengchun functioned as an administrative and military center. The early economy was built around supplying the needs of the garrison and developing agriculture. Settlers from other regions moved here, contributing to the formation of a distinct cultural environment that blended the traditions of the newcomers with the local way of life.

The city's architecture reflected traditional Chinese urban planning principles, taking into account Feng Shui and military requirements. The surviving brick walls stand as a testament to the skill of the era's builders and remain a vital symbol of the region's historical heritage.

Timeline of Hengchun's Development

• 1874 — Following the events known as the "Mudan Incident," the Qing government makes a strategic decision to strengthen the defenses of the southern part of the island.
• 1875 — Official founding of the city and the start of large-scale construction of fortress walls under the leadership of Imperial Commissioner Shen Baozhen.
• 1879 — Construction of the city's fortifications is completed, including the four gates, which are today considered the best-preserved historical structures of their kind in Taiwan.
• 1895 — With shifts in the region's political map, the city transitions to a new administration, beginning the modernization of infrastructure and education.
• 1901 — Active cultivation of sisal begins in the region; its production remains Hengchun’s primary economic industry for many years.
• 1945 — Following the end of World War II, Hengchun is designated as a township within Pingtung County under a new administrative system.
• 1980s — The end of industrial sisal production marks the transition of the region's economy to other activities.
• 1984 — The creation of Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s first, transforms the region into a key tourist hub and a gateway to tropical beaches.
• 1985 — The Ministry of the Interior officially grants Hengchun’s surviving walls and gates the status of a national historical monument.
• 2006 — A strong earthquake occurs in the area, drawing attention to the need for reinforcing and preserving the city's historical heritage.
• 2008 — The release of the popular film "Cape No. 7," filmed in the city, sparks a tourism boom and revives interest in Hengchun’s historic streets.
• 2013 — Completion of large-scale restoration work on a section of the fortress wall, allowing tourists to walk along the top of the fortifications.

Milestones of Development and Transformation

Hengchun's journey from a military fortification to a popular tourist center was shaped by several key stages. These events defined not only the city's appearance but also its economic and cultural way of life:

• Formation of the Urban Framework (1875–1879). The construction of the fortress wall with four gates was the primary city-forming factor. This structure fixed the boundaries of the historical center and created a unique layout that survives today, making Hengchun Taiwan’s only fully preserved walled city.
• The "Sisal Kingdom" Era (Early 20th Century – 1980s). The introduction of sisal (agave) cultivation by the Japanese administration made the city a center for natural fiber production in East Asia. For decades, the export of ropes and fabrics was the foundation of local prosperity until synthetic materials eventually displaced the industry.
• Establishment of Kenting National Park (1984). The founding of Taiwan’s first national park was a turning point for the economy. The city transitioned from an agricultural center to a major base for tourism, leading to the rapid development of the hospitality and service sectors.
• Historical Monument Status (1985). Official state recognition of the value of the fortress walls protected the old city from demolition and haphazard modern development. This decision helped preserve the 19th-century atmosphere that serves as a major "magnet" for travelers today.
• The "Cape No. 7" Cultural Phenomenon (2008). The success of the film, shot against the backdrop of the city, sparked a massive surge in domestic tourism. This led to the gentrification of old neighborhoods: historical buildings were restored and converted into creative spaces, cafes, and boutique hotels harmoniously integrated into the ancient architecture.
• Revival of Intangible Heritage. In recent years, the city has actively developed its brand as a capital of folk music. The popularization of the yueqin (moon lute) and annual folk song festivals have transformed Hengchun’s image, adding deep cultural context to its coastal and historical appeal.

Architectural Evolution and Urban Planning

The architectural character of Hengchun is a unique layering of three key historical periods. The city’s urban structure still follows a late 19th-century plan dictated by Feng Shui principles and strategic defense, while its residential buildings showcase a blend of Southern Chinese traditions, Japanese colonial influence, and modern functionalism.

The Qing Dynasty Era: Military Architecture and Minnan Style

The city's foundation was laid in 1875, a period that defined the boundaries of the historical center.

• Style: Traditional Chinese fortification architecture and Minnan (Southern Fujian) style.
• Key Features: Use of red brick, granite, and local coral stone. Buildings are oriented according to geomantic principles to protect against winds and ward off spirits.
• Landmarks:
  • City Walls and the Four Gates: The East, West, South, and North gates are the best-preserved in Taiwan. They serve as the city’s framework, featuring powerful arched passages and defensive parapets.

The Japanese Period: Colonial Eclecticism and Shophouses

In the first half of the 20th century, the city transformed from a military garrison into a commercial hub, which was reflected in the appearance of its streets.

• Style: A mix of Japanese wooden architecture and brick "Commercial Baroque" (Shophouse architecture).
• Key Features: Building facades on main streets began to be decorated with stucco and ornate parapets. Covered galleries (arcades) appeared on the ground floors, protecting pedestrians from the sun and rain.
• Landmarks:
  • Hengchun Old Street: This area preserves historical shophouses that combine residential quarters on the second floor with shops on the first.
  • A-Jia’s House: A traditional two-story building that became famous thanks to the film "Cape No. 7," vividly illustrating the residential architecture of that era.

The Modern Era: Adaptive Design and Postmodernism

With the growth of tourism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the city began to reinterpret its heritage.

• Style: Modern functionalism and renovation (adaptive reuse).
• Key Features: Old buildings are not demolished but reinforced with concrete and glass, turning into creative spaces. New structures are often styled to look old so as not to disrupt the historical landscape.
• Urban Planning: Development has expanded beyond the fortress walls; however, building height restrictions apply within the historical core to preserve the visual dominance of the ancient gates and the mountain scenery.

Historical Figures and Founders

• Shen Baozhen — Imperial Commissioner of the Qing Dynasty.
  A key figure in the city's history. In 1874, while arriving in Taiwan to strengthen coastal defenses, he recognized the strategic importance of the Langqiao area. By his decree, construction of the fortress began in 1875, and he personally named the city "Hengchun" ("Eternal Spring") due to its mild climate.
• Liu Ao — Military Official and Administrator.
  The direct supervisor of the city's fortifications. Experienced in defense works, he designed Hengchun’s walls and gates using local materials and Feng Shui principles. Thanks to his engineering solutions, the city walls remain better preserved than any others on the island.

Guardians of Culture and Art

• Chen Da — Folk Musician and Singer.
  A legendary figure in Taiwanese culture. A self-taught player of the moon lute (yueqin), he became the symbol of Hengchun folk music. His performance of the ballad "Ideology" (Thoughts of the Past) made local folklore famous nationwide. A monument stands in his honor in the city, and his former home is a local landmark.
• Zhang Ri-gui — Folk Song Performer.
  Recognized as a "Living National Treasure" of Taiwan. She dedicated her life to preserving and passing on the region's unique vocal traditions, particularly the "Manzhou" songs. Thanks to her, Hengchun's ancient melodies have not vanished but continue to be heard at festivals and in music schools.

Modern Personalities

• Wei Te-sheng — Film Director.
  Although not born in Hengchun, his contribution to the city's modern history is invaluable. His film "Cape No. 7," set in Hengchun, became the highest-grossing film in Taiwanese cinema history. This work transformed the quiet historical town into a major tourist destination, breathing new life into its ancient streets.