The name Lukang (or Lugang) literally translates as "Deer Harbor." Historical records indicate that the area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, and the name likely arose from the large number of deer that lived on the coast in those times.
Active development of the settlement began in the 17th century with the arrival of settlers from Fujian province. Thanks to the presence of a protected natural harbor, the small fishing village quickly began to transform into an important logistics point.
Key Factors of Formation
During the Qing Dynasty (especially in the 18th and first half of the 19th century), Lukang experienced its golden age, becoming the second most important city on the island. This was facilitated by several key factors:
Geographical Position: The city was located on the west coast, being the closest point to mainland China, which made it an ideal location for maritime communication.
Trade Status: In 1784, the harbor received official permission for direct trade with the port of Quanzhou on the mainland. This decision turned Lukang into the main trade gateway of central Taiwan.
Resource Export: Enormous volumes of rice and sugar were exported through the port, attracting numerous trade guilds and entrepreneurs.
Early Cultural and Economic Characteristics
Economic prosperity shaped a unique city image that differed from other settlements of the time:
Influential Merchant Class: Local traders possessed significant capital and power, financing the construction of public infrastructure and luxurious residences.
Religious Heritage: Wealthy residents actively donated to the construction of temples. It was during this period that the famous Lungshan Temple and Tianhou Temple were built, becoming masterpieces of traditional architecture.
Center of Crafts and Education: Lukang was famous for the high literacy rate of its population, as well as the development of traditional crafts such as wood carving and lantern making, traditions that continue to this day.
Timeline
Key Historical Milestones
17th Century — The territory is inhabited by indigenous tribes, and the area is named "Deer Harbor" due to the active trade in deer hides.
1725 — Establishment of a trading settlement, which begins to attract more and more settlers from China's Fujian province.
1784 — An imperial decree officially opens the port of Lukang for direct trade with the mainland, sparking rapid economic growth.
1786 — Construction begins on the famous Lungshan Temple, which is now recognized as a national architectural monument.
Late 18th — First Half of 19th Century — The "Golden Age" of the city, when Lukang was the second most important center on the island after Tainan.
1850 — The harbor begins to silt up heavily due to river deposits, making it impossible for large merchant ships to enter.
1895 — Taiwan comes under Japanese rule, leading to a break in established trade ties with mainland ports.
Early 20th Century — During the construction of the island's main railway, the route is laid to bypass Lukang, leading to its economic isolation.
1919 — Construction of the Gu family residence is completed, a magnificent mansion that became a symbol of the former wealth of local merchants.
1945 — After the end of World War II, the city becomes part of Changhua County as an urban township.
1973 — The Lukang Folk Arts Museum opens in the historical Gu family mansion, marking the beginning of the development of cultural tourism.
1986 — Launch of a government program for the restoration of old streets and the preservation of the city's unique architectural appearance.
2012 — Lukang is included in the list of Taiwan's top ten small tourist towns, cementing its status as an "open-air museum."
Milestones
Stages of Development and Transformation
The history of Lukang is a journey from a bustling trade hub to a guardian of the island's cultural heritage. The city's main milestones have defined its modern architectural and cultural identity.
Granting of Official Port Status (1784)
A key moment in history when the city became the only legal trading point with the mainland port of Quanzhou. This turned Lukang into an economic center where goods and capital flowed, forming a class of wealthy merchant-patrons.
Urban Boom and the "Golden Age"
During its peak, a unique dense development emerged: narrow winding streets for protection against wind and pirates, and majestic temples. It was then that the saying "First Tainan, second Lukang" arose, cementing the city's status.
Harbor Siltation (Mid-19th Century)
Natural changes in the riverbed and the accumulation of sand made the port unsuitable for large vessels. This led to a loss of trade primacy, but it was this economic downturn that saved the ancient quarters from being demolished for new development.
Transport Isolation (Early 20th Century)
When the island's main railway was laid, the route bypassed Lukang (going through Taichung). The absence of a railway station finally shifted the economic focus to neighboring regions, preserving the city's traditional way of life.
Modernization of Zhongshan Road (1930s)
During the Japanese administration, the city's main artery was reconstructed. The widening of the street and the construction of Art Nouveau-style facades added an interesting mix of architectural styles to Lukang's appearance, which has survived to this day.
Revival through Tourism and Crafts (Late 20th Century)
Active government support for heritage preservation began in the 1980s. The city pivoted toward cultural tourism, becoming a center for Taiwan's traditional arts and a popular location for pilgrims.
Architecture
The Architectural Chronicles of Lukang
Lukang is rightfully considered Taiwan's architectural sanctuary. Unlike many of the island's modern metropolises, it has preserved a dense historical landscape that reflects the transition from traditional Chinese architecture to the trends of the early 20th century. The urban fabric was shaped by the climate (strong winds), trade, and shifting political eras.
Key Styles and Eras
1. Traditional Minnan Style (Qing Dynasty Era)
The city's heyday (18th – mid-19th century) left the richest legacy. The architecture of this period is characterized by the style brought by settlers from southern Fujian.
Features: The use of red brick and terracotta tiles, wooden frames, and intricate stone and wood carvings. The roofs of temples and wealthy homes are decorated with curved "swallowtail" ridges—a symbol of the owner's high status.
Building Type: Long, narrow "shophouses" predominate. The facade faced the street and served as a shop, while living quarters extended deep into the block, often featuring inner courtyards for ventilation.
2. Colonial Style and Baroque (Japanese Period, 1895–1945)
In the early 20th century, the Japanese administration reconstructed the streets, introducing elements of Western architecture that were popular in Japan at the time.
Features: Building facades on main streets began to be decorated in styles reminiscent of Baroque and Renaissance, but with local flair. Decorative pediments, stucco, columns, and the use of concrete alongside brick are characteristic.
Urban Planning: The central street (now Zhongshan Road) was widened and straightened, creating a contrast with the winding alleys of the old quarters.
Unique Urban Planning Solutions
The layout of old Lukang was dictated by the need for protection against the strong northeast monsoons blowing from the Taiwan Strait.
Winding Alleys: Streets were intentionally designed to be curved or T-shaped rather than straight. This broke the wind's force and prevented sandstorms from penetrating residential zones.
Covered Streets: In the past, many commercial streets were covered with awnings to protect shoppers from the sun and rain. Although most of these structures have not survived, the term "No Sky Street" remains part of the city's history.
Iconic Buildings and Districts
Lungshan Temple: A masterpiece of Qing Dynasty architecture. It is often called the "Forbidden City of Taiwan" for its magnificent preservation, complex system of wooden brackets (dougong), and exquisite carvings.
Lukang Folk Arts Museum (Gu Family Mansion): A striking example of the blend of styles from the early 20th century. The building combines a Western structure, a mansard roof, and Rococo elements with a traditional Chinese courtyard layout.
Old Street: The Putou and Yaolin street areas are a living museum of red-brick architecture, where authentic merchant houses with low eaves and massive wooden doors have been preserved.
Nine Turns Lane: A classic example of wind-resistant planning. A narrow passage with many bends where silence reigns even on a windy day.
Notable People
Prominent Personalities of Lukang
Lukang is often called the "cradle of talent" in Taiwan. Thanks to its rich history and high level of culture, this city has given the world famous writers, major entrepreneurs, and intellectuals whose influence has extended far beyond the region.
Stan Shih (Shi Zhenrong) — Founder of Acer Inc.
A legend of the global IT industry and a native of Lukang. Stan Shih founded Acer, playing a key role in transforming Taiwan into a global technology hub. Despite his international success, he maintains a close connection with his hometown and invests in local cultural projects.
Gu Xianrong (Koo Hsien-jung) — Merchant, Industrialist, and Politician (1866–1937)
Founder of one of the island's most influential business dynasties—the Gu family. He played an important role in Taiwan's economic life during the Japanese administration. It was by his commission that the magnificent mansion was built, which today houses the Lukang Folk Arts Museum.
Shi Shuqing (Shih Shu-ching) — Writer and Playwright
A distinguished literary figure whose works have gained international recognition. Lukang occupies a central place in her work, especially in the famous "Taiwan" trilogy, where the fate of the entire island is revealed through the history of the city.
Ding Shouquan — Qing Dynasty Scholar and Official
A representative of the noble Ding family. He became famous for successfully passing the highest imperial examinations (jinshi), which was considered the pinnacle of a career in old China. His legacy is preserved in the "Ding Family Mansion," which is an architectural monument open to tourists.
Gu Zhenfu (Koo Chen-fu) — Diplomat and Businessman (1917–2005)
The son of Gu Xianrong, who continued the family business. He was not only the head of a major business group but also a prominent international negotiator. His contribution to economic development and cultural diplomacy is highly valued by contemporaries.
Li Ang — Writer and Public Figure
The younger sister of Shih Shu-ching, known for her bold and socially sharp writing style. She is one of the most translated Taiwanese writers. The atmosphere of old Lukang, in which she grew up, had a significant influence on her literary taste.