Taichung history

The history of Taichung is a journey from a small indigenous settlement to one of Taiwan's key metropolises. The city has passed through several important stages, each leaving its mark on its architecture, culture, and economy.

Foundation and First Mentions

Originally, these lands were inhabited by tribes of indigenous Taiwanese peoples. In the early 18th century, settlers from mainland China began to arrive, founding the settlement of Dadun (大墩) in 1705, which means "big mound." In the late 19th century, during the Qing Dynasty, Dadun was considered as a potential capital for the province of Taiwan due to its strategic location in the centre of the island; however, these plans were not fully realised.

Key Factors of Formation

A decisive role in transforming Taichung into a modern city was played by the period of Japanese rule (1895–1945). The new administration renamed the city Taichu (臺中), meaning "Central Taiwan," and initiated large-scale urban planning. Key growth factors included:

• Geographical Location: Its position in the centre of the western part of the island made the city a natural transport and logistics hub.
• Infrastructure: Japanese engineers laid a railway connecting the north and south of Taiwan, built a station and bridges, and laid out streets in a clear grid pattern, which facilitated orderly growth.
• Administrative Status: Taichu became the administrative centre of the prefecture of the same name, which strengthened its political and economic significance.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the first half of the 20th century, Taichung established itself as an important centre of trade and culture. The city's economy relied on the agriculture of the fertile plains, particularly the cultivation of rice and sugar cane. At the same time, light industry was developing. Thanks to its tranquil atmosphere, cleanliness, and abundance of greenery, the city earned the unofficial title of the "Kyoto of Formosa." It was during this period that the foundations were laid for Taichung's future transformation into a major educational, cultural, and industrial hub of modern Taiwan.

Chronology of Taichung's History

From a small settlement to a modern metropolis, the history of Taichung reflects the key stages of development of all Taiwan. Below are the main milestones in the making of the city.

• 1705 — Chinese settlers found the settlement of Dadun (大墩), which became the starting point in the history of the future city.
• 1721 — A military garrison is stationed in Dadun to strengthen Qing Dynasty rule in the central part of the island.
• 1887 — As part of the creation of a separate Taiwan province, Dadun is considered a candidate for the role of the new capital, but the plans were not realised.
• 1895 — Following the end of the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan comes under Japanese administration, opening a new chapter in the city's history.
• 1908 — Construction of the railway line connecting northern and southern Taiwan is completed, and a famous pavilion is erected in the central park to honour this event.
• 1920 — The city officially receives the name Taichu (臺中), meaning "Central Taiwan," and the status of a city within Taichu Prefecture.
• 1927 — Dr. Miyahara's eye clinic opens; the building is today one of the most popular tourist attractions.
• 1945 — After the end of World War II, Taiwan comes under the governance of the Republic of China, and the city receives its modern name — Taichung.
• 2004 — Taichung International Airport opens, significantly increasing the city's transport accessibility.
• 25 December 2010 — The administrative merger of Taichung City and Taichung County takes place, resulting in the formation of a new special municipality with an expanded territory.
• 2014 — The National Taichung Theatre opens, becoming one of the main cultural symbols of the modern city.
• 2021 — The first line of the Taichung Metro begins operation, marking a new stage in the development of urban infrastructure.

Key Milestones in the Development of Taichung

Taichung has travelled an impressive path from an agrarian centre to one of the most dynamic metropolises in Taiwan. Its modern appearance is the result of a series of key transformations in urban planning, economy, and culture.

Japanese Urban Planning Heritage (Early 20th Century)

During the period of Japanese rule (1895–1945), the foundations of modern Taichung were laid. The city, then bearing the name Taichu, was planned after the model of Kyoto with a clear grid structure of streets, parks, and developed infrastructure. The construction of the main railway line passing through the city turned it into the most crucial transport hub of central Taiwan and provided a powerful impulse for economic growth.

Industrialisation and Economic Growth (1950s–1980s)

After World War II, Taichung became a centre for light industry and precision engineering. The city actively participated in the "Taiwanese economic miracle," developing export-oriented manufacturing. Its favourable location and the availability of a skilled workforce contributed to transforming Taichung into one of the island's industrial locomotives.

Creation of the Central Taiwan Science Park (2003)

The establishment of the Central Taiwan Science Park (CTSP) was a turning point in the city's recent economic history. This high-tech cluster attracted global leaders in the fields of semiconductors, optoelectronics, and biotechnology, turning Taichung into one of the global centres of innovation. The park not only created thousands of jobs but also stimulated the development of related industries and scientific research in the region.

Administrative Reform (2010)

The merger of the city and county of Taichung into a single special municipality significantly expanded its territory and population. This reform allowed for more effective resource management, coordination of infrastructure projects, and strengthened Taichung's status as Taiwan's third-largest metropolis.

Cultural Renaissance and Tourism Development (2010s)

In recent decades, Taichung has been actively investing in culture and creative industries. The opening in 2016 of the National Taichung Theatre, designed by the famous architect Toyo Ito, became a symbol of these changes. Old industrial buildings, such as the former Miyahara Eye Clinic, have been transformed into popular tourist sites. This, along with the development of the transport network, including the launch of the metro in 2021, has made the city an attractive centre for cultural tourism.

The architectural appearance of Taichung represents a fascinating blend of eras and styles, reflecting its journey from a colonial centre to an ultramodern metropolis. Here, historical buildings coexist harmoniously with futuristic masterpieces, creating a unique urban landscape.

Japanese Colonial Period (1895–1945)

The foundations of Taichung's modern urban planning were laid in the Japanese era. The city was planned according to a clear grid system, which still defines the structure of its central districts. Architecture of this time was dominated by the so-called "Japanese-Western Eclectic Style," combining European architectural forms (Neo-Renaissance, Baroque) with traditional Japanese elements.

• Taichung Old Station — A vivid example of this style. The red brick building with white decorative inserts and a majestic tower has become one of the city's symbols.
• Former Taichung City Hall (Taichung Shiyakusho) — An elegant building demonstrating the influence of European Neoclassicism; it served as an administrative centre and has preserved its historical charm.

Post-War Modernism (1950s–1990s)

The post-war period was characterised by rapid economic growth and urbanisation. During this time, architecture was primarily functional in nature. Simple and practical residential blocks, industrial facilities, and public buildings were constructed in the spirit of modernism, where the main focus was on function rather than decoration. This stage formed the dense urban development of many districts in Taichung.

Contemporary and Post-Modern Architecture (Since the 2000s)

At the turn of the 21st century, Taichung declared itself a centre for bold architectural experiments and innovation. The city became a platform for realising projects by world-renowned architects.

• National Taichung Theatre — An undoubted gem of modern architecture, designed by Pritzker Prize laureate Toyo Ito. Its futuristic building with curved walls, lack of right angles, and organic forms resembling caves or grottos has become the city's calling card.
• Adaptive Reuse — A signature feature of modern Taichung. Old industrial and historical buildings are given new life. The most famous example is the Miyahara Eye Clinic, transformed into a luxurious dessert and souvenir shop while preserving the historical façade and creating a fantastic steampunk-style interior.

Today, Taichung's urban development continues to move towards creating a "green" and technologically advanced city, where new skyscrapers and cultural centres, such as the future Green Museumbrary complex, are integrated into park zones, forming a comfortable and aesthetically appealing environment for living.

Notable People Associated with Taichung

The city of Taichung has been the birthplace or place of activity for many talented individuals who have made significant contributions to science, art, cinema, and pop culture both in Taiwan and beyond.

Peter Chen (陳品山)

Role: Computer Scientist.

Significance: Peter Chen, born in Taichung, is a key figure in the world of information technology. In 1976, he developed the Entity-Relationship Model (ER model), which became a fundamental standard for database design and software development worldwide. His work formed the basis of modern database management systems, and he has been honoured with numerous prestigious awards in the IT field for his contribution.

Hsieh Ying-chun (謝英俊)

Role: Architect.

Significance: A native of Taichung County, Hsieh Ying-chun gained international recognition for his socially-oriented architecture. He developed innovative, low-cost, and eco-friendly construction methods that allow people affected by natural disasters to rebuild their own homes. His projects were implemented following the devastating earthquake in Taiwan in 1999, as well as in other regions of Asia. He was awarded the prestigious Curry Stone Design Prize for his humanitarian work.

Ang Lee (李安)

Role: Film Director, Screenwriter, Producer.

Significance: Although Ang Lee was not born in Taichung, his name is inextricably linked to the city thanks to his Oscar-winning film "Life of Pi" (2012). A huge pavilion with a wave pool was built specifically for filming in Taichung, where impressive ocean scenes were created. The success of the film led to the establishment of the "Central Taiwan Film Studios" on this site, transforming the city into an important hub for film production.

Ethan Juan (阮經天)

Role: Actor and Model.

Significance: Ethan Juan was born and raised in Taichung. He gained widespread fame thanks to leading roles in popular Taiwanese dramas such as "Fated to Love You." His career reached its peak in 2010 when he received the prestigious Golden Horse Award (considered the "Chinese Oscar") in the "Best Actor" category for his role in the film "Monga."

Steve Chou (周傳雄)

Role: Singer, Composer, and Music Producer.

Significance: Steve Chou, born in Taichung, is an iconic figure in the world of Mandopop (Mandarin pop music). Over his long career, he has written numerous hits both for himself and for other pop stars. His lyrical ballads have earned him the unofficial title of the "Godfather of Love Songs." His song "Twilight" (黃昏) became incredibly popular across Asia.

Vivian Hsu (徐若瑄)

Role: Singer, Actress, Model.

Significance: Vivian Hsu, a native of Taichung, began her career in 1990 after winning a talent contest. She quickly became one of Taiwan's most recognisable stars, achieving success not only at home but also in Japan. Her multifaceted career includes releasing music albums, acting in dozens of films and television series, and a successful modelling career.