Xingang

Foundation and Historical Roots

The history of Xingang is inextricably linked with the fate of the ancient trading settlement of Beigang, which flourished in this region in the 18th century. The actual birth of the current city can be traced to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, when natural forces radically changed the landscape of the area.

After a devastating flood of the Beigang River in 1799, the old port was seriously damaged. Residents of the eastern part of the destroyed city, fleeing the water, moved to higher ground to a place then known as Mazhilin. The new settlement was named Xinnangang ("New Southern Port"), which over time was transformed into the modern name, Xingang.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of Xingang was determined by a complex combination of geographical and social conditions:

• Geographical position: Proximity to the Beigang River initially favored the development of trade, but its unpredictable nature forced residents to seek safer lands, leading to the foundation of the city in its current location.
• Trading heritage: As the successor to the traditions of old Beigang, the new city quickly regained its status as an important commercial hub in Chiayi County, facilitating the exchange of goods between the coast and the island's interior.
• Community cohesion: The need to rebuild life "from scratch" after the flood united the local population, laying a solid foundation for urban self-organization.

Early Cultural and Economic Characteristics

From the very beginning of its existence, Xingang took shape as an important religious center. A key event was the restoration of shrines rescued from the flooded old city.

The early economy was based on traditional agriculture and crafts. A special role was played by the production of incense and religious items, which was directly related to the growing popularity of the local Fengtian Temple, dedicated to the goddess of seafarers, Mazu. This temple became the spiritual heart of the city and a point of attraction for pilgrims, which stimulated the development of the service and trade sectors in the early years of Xingang's existence.

Key Milestones in the History of Xingang

• 1799: A devastating flood of the Beigang River destroys the old port of Beigang, forcing residents to relocate east to the area of present-day Xingang.
• 1811: Construction of the famous Fengtian Temple is completed, becoming the spiritual center of the new settlement and the home for the rescued statue of the goddess Mazu.
• 1885: The settlement officially receives the name Xinnangang ("New Southern Port"), solidifying its status as the successor to the old city.
• 1895: The region comes under the administration of the Japanese government, marking the beginning of the modernization of infrastructure and agriculture.
• 1904: A strong earthquake occurs in the vicinity of the city, damaging many historical buildings and requiring large-scale reconstruction.
• 1911: The opening of the railway station, connecting the city to the "sugar railway" network, significantly accelerates economic development.
• 1920: During an administrative reform, the name is simplified to the modern "Xingang," and the settlement is included in Chiayi County.
• 1946: Post-war reorganization establishes Xingang as a rural township, defining its modern administrative boundaries.
• 1985: Fengtian Temple is designated as a third-category historical monument, drawing attention to the preservation of the city's cultural heritage.
• 1987: The "Xingang Foundation for Culture and Education" is founded, becoming Taiwan's first example of a successful grassroots initiative for local community development.
• 2000s: The city actively develops its tourism infrastructure, reviving traditional crafts such as incense production and Koji pottery.
• Present day: Xingang has established itself as one of Taiwan's key religious centers, welcoming millions of pilgrims annually during the Mazu pilgrimage.

Stages of Xingang's Transformation and Development

The history of Xingang is a journey from forced relocation to becoming a model cultural center in Taiwan. Below are the key milestones that defined the modern look and economy of the city.

• Migration and Urbanization After the Flood (Late 18th Century)

  The destruction of the old port of Beigang by natural disaster became the starting point for a new urban history. Moving the settlement to higher ground not only saved the residents but also led to the formation of a safer and more orderly urban structure oriented toward land trade routes.

• Fengtian Temple as the Urban Core (1811)

  The completion of the main temple's construction determined the layout of the central streets. A "temple market" emerged around the sanctuary, triggering the development of the service sector and trade in religious items, which still forms the basis of the city's small business economy.

• Integration into Industrial Logistics (Early 20th Century)

  Connecting to the "sugar railway" network during the Japanese modernization period brought Xingang out of isolation. The station became an important hub for transporting agricultural raw materials, which stimulated capital inflow and population growth.

• Administrative Reform and Identity (1920)

  The official adoption of the name "Xingang" and its inclusion into Chiayi County as part of the local government reform unified the city's management and laid the foundations of the modern administrative system.

• "Cultural Awakening" (1987)

  The establishment of the Xingang Foundation for Culture and Education was a unique precedent for rural areas in Taiwan. This initiative transformed the city from an ordinary agrarian township into a center of social innovation, where residents themselves initiate projects for improvement, opening libraries, and creating parks.

• Development of Niche Craftsmanship (Koji Pottery)

  Xingang solidified its status as the capital of traditional Taiwanese Koji pottery. The concentration of workshops and the creation of a theme park turned the craft into a tourist brand, attracting art lovers and providing employment for local masters.

Architectural Landscape and Urban Planning

The architectural landscape of Xingang is a harmonious interweaving of traditional Chinese architecture, colonial heritage, and modern functional development. The city's layout evolved radially from its spiritual center—the temple—which is typical for ancient Taiwanese settlements.

The Qing Dynasty: Traditional Minnan Style

The foundation of the historical center consists of buildings from the late 18th to 19th centuries. This period is characterized by the dominance of the Southern Fujian (Minnan) style, brought by settlers from the mainland.

• Characteristic features: Curved "swallowtail" roofs, rich stone and wood carvings, the use of red brick, and vibrant ceramics.
• Urban dominant: Fengtian Temple. This is not just a religious building, but an architectural masterpiece that set the tone for the entire central part of the city. This is where the art of Koji pottery is most vividly presented—colorful figures on the roof ridges and walls that have become Xingang's hallmark.

The Japanese Period (1895–1945): Wooden Architecture and Infrastructure

In the first half of the 20th century, the city's appearance began to change under the influence of Japanese modernization. Architecture became more utilitarian, with elements of Western influence adapted to the local climate.

• Style: A blend of traditional Japanese wooden architecture with elements of Western classicism in administrative buildings.
• Iconic site: The former railway station (now Xingang Railway Park). The station building and surrounding structures are made of wood, demonstrating the simple lines and functionality characteristic of transport infrastructure at that time.

Modernity: Functionalism and "Art Urbanism"

The post-war period and modern development introduced concrete structures and a new approach to urban space. Xingang is unique in that modern urbanism is closely intertwined with folk art here.

• Residential development: "Shophouses" predominate—narrow multi-story buildings where the first floor is used for trade or a workshop, and the upper floors are for living. Facades are often tiled, which is typical of Taiwanese postmodernism of the 1970s–90s.
• Cultural integration: In recent decades, the city has been transforming into an "open-air museum." House walls, bridges, and embankments are decorated with mosaics and panels made of Koji pottery, integrating historical craftsmanship into the modern environment.

Historical Figures and Pioneers

• Yan Siqi
  Pioneer, "The King of Opening Taiwan" (17th Century)
  A legendary figure in the history of the island's development. In 1621, he led a group of settlers from Fujian who landed in the ancient Beigang area (the predecessor of Xingang). He is considered the founder of the first Han settlements in this region, laying the foundation for the future agricultural and commercial development of the area.
• Lin Wei-chao
  Scholar, Administrator, Poet (1868–1934)
  A prominent Confucian scholar (xiucai) of the Qing era who successfully adapted to change and became the first head of the Xingang administration during the Japanese rule. He played a key role in modernizing local governance and preserving cultural traditions, leaving behind a rich poetic legacy.

The Lin Dynasty: Doctors and Politicians

• Lin Kai-tai
  Doctor, Philanthropist, "The Poet-Doctor" (1895–1942)
  The son of Lin Wei-chao, a respected physician known for his selflessness and humanism. His clinic and home (now the "Peigui Hall" cultural center) were a magnet for the intelligentsia. He raised a galaxy of outstanding descendants and is remembered by residents as a symbol of morality and service to society.
• Lin Chin-sheng
  Statesman (1916–2001)
  The son of Lin Kai-tai, who became a prominent politician. He held the positions of Chiayi County Magistrate, Minister of the Interior, and Vice President of the Examination Yuan of Taiwan. He made significant contributions to the development of regional infrastructure and the strengthening of the island's administrative system in the post-war period.

Masters of Arts and Crafts

• Shi Lian-chi
  Master of Koji Pottery (20th Century)
  A famous craftsman whose name is inextricably linked with the traditional art of Koji pottery (Cochin ware). His works adorn many temples in Taiwan, including the local Fengtian Temple. Thanks to his skill and his school of apprentices, Xingang earned the unofficial status as the "nest" of this unique type of decorative art.
• Lu Qi-tou
  Confectioner, Inventor (19th–20th Century)
  The creator of the famous "Xingang candy" (Xingang yi), which became a gastronomic symbol of the city. The recipe he invented using malt, sugar, and peanuts made the city famous far beyond its borders, and the candy itself became a popular souvenir for pilgrims.

Modern Cultural Figures

• Lin Hwai-min
  Choreographer, Writer (born 1947)
  The world-renowned founder of the Cloud Gate Dance Theatre. Great-grandson of Lin Wei-chao. He revolutionized modern dance in Asia by synthesizing Western techniques with Eastern philosophy and aesthetics. His work has brought world fame to Xingang, and his family's ancestral home has become an important cultural site.
• Tsai Chen-nan
  Actor, Singer, Composer (born 1954)
  A charismatic artist born in Xingang. A recipient of many prestigious awards (including the Golden Horse). His songs and roles, often reflecting the lives of ordinary people and local color, have made him one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in Taiwanese pop culture.