The history of Zhushan (formerly known as Linpupu) dates back to the second half of the 17th century. It is considered one of the oldest settlements in Nantou County and the first to establish an administrative structure in the region.
Founding Date: Active development of the territory began around 1665.
Role of the Individual: The city was founded by a general named Lin Pi, who brought soldiers here to cultivate the land. In his honor, the settlement was named Linpupu for a long time.
Status: Zhushan became a bridgehead for further settlement and development of the central part of Taiwan.
Key Factors of Formation
The transformation of a small settlement into an important regional center was due to several reasons:
Geographical Location: The city is located on the border of plains and mountains, near the Zhuoshui River, making it a natural "gateway" to the island's interior.
Trade: Zhushan served as a key hub for exchanging goods between the inhabitants of the plains and the indigenous peoples living in the mountainous areas.
Strategy: Thanks to its successful location, the city quickly became an important transit point for merchants and travelers.
Early Cultural and Economic Features
The city's modern name, which translates as "Bamboo Mountain," reflects the foundation of its early economy and culture.
Bamboo Craft: The abundance of bamboo forests contributed to the development of unique craft traditions. Local masters were famous for making furniture, utensils, and tools from this material.
Agriculture: In addition to bamboo, early Zhushan's economy relied on the cultivation of tea and sweet potatoes on the fertile foothill lands.
Timeline
Key Milestones in the History of Zhushan
The city's history is a journey from a small military settlement to the center of crafts and culture in Nantou County. Below are the key events that shaped the face of modern Zhushan.
1665 — General Lin Pi leads troops to the region to develop the land, founding a settlement called Linpupu.
1756 — Completion of the Lianxing Temple, which today is recognized as a historical monument and the oldest temple in Nantou County.
1786 — The region becomes involved in the Lin Shuangwen rebellion, after which Qing administration control over the territory is strengthened.
1887 — Linpupu (the old name for Zhushan) temporarily becomes the administrative center of the newly formed Yunlin County.
1895 — The beginning of the Japanese colonial period, leading to infrastructure modernization and the introduction of new agricultural methods.
1920 — During a major administrative reform, the city receives its current name, Zhushan, which translates as "Bamboo Mountain."
1931 — Founding of a Shinto shrine, on the site of which the Zhushan City Park was later established.
1946 — After the end of World War II, Zhushan is officially included in Nantou County as an urban township.
1980s — Active development of the bamboo processing industry, solidifying the city's status as the craft center of Taiwan.
September 21, 1999 — The devastating "921" earthquake causes serious damage to the city's buildings, as the Chelungpu fault passes through its territory.
2002 — Completion of major reconstruction phases after the earthquake and the opening of new cultural sites, including the Bamboo Culture Museum.
2010s — Zinan Temple in Zhushan is established as one of the most visited religious sites in Taiwan, attracting millions of pilgrims.
Milestones
Milestones and Transformations
The development of Zhushan has been defined by shifting economic patterns and natural challenges. Below are the key stages that shaped the city's modern appearance and status.
Becoming an Administrative Center (1887)
In the late 19th century, the settlement (then known as Linpupu) was chosen as the temporary capital of the newly formed Yunlin County. Significance: This decision transformed the trading post into a political center, stimulated an influx of officials and merchants, and laid the foundations for the first formal urban planning and fortifications.
Administrative Reform and Renaming (1920)
During the Japanese administration, a large-scale reorganization took place, during which the city received its official name, Zhushan ("Bamboo Mountain"). Significance: Administrative unification and the introduction of modern infrastructure standards allowed the city to be integrated into the island's overall transport and economic network.
Industrialization of the Bamboo Trade (1960s–1980s)
Traditional crafts grew into industrial production. Hundreds of factories for processing bamboo, manufacturing furniture, and creating souvenirs opened in the city. Significance: This period ensured the city's economic prosperity, solidifying its status as Taiwan's "bamboo capital" and creating thousands of jobs.
Urban Renovation After the Disaster (Post-1999)
The devastating "921" earthquake destroyed a significant portion of the old housing stock. Significance: The tragedy led to a forced but necessary modernization of the urban layout. Earthquake-resistant buildings were erected, and the Chelungpu Fault Preservation Park was created on the site of the fault, becoming an important scientific and educational landmark.
Transformation into a Religious Tourism Hub (21st Century)
Zinan Temple gained nationwide fame due to the tradition of issuing "fortune money" to believers. Significance: Religious tourism became a new locomotive for the city's economy, compensating for the decline in the manufacturing sector. The temple's income helps fund Zhushan's social programs, including aid to schools and the elderly.
Architecture
Architectural Landscape and Urban Planning
The architecture of Zhushan is an eclectic blend of traditional Chinese craftsmanship, the heritage of the Japanese colonial period, and modern functional developments that emerged during the city's restoration following the 1999 earthquake.
Architectural Styles and Historical Eras
The urban environment was shaped by the layering of several cultural strata, each leaving its mark on the city's streets.
Qing Dynasty (Traditional Style): The earliest layer, represented by temple architecture and old residential houses. It is characterized by the "Minnan" (Southern Fujian) style, utilizing red brick, wood, and curved "swallowtail" roofs.
Japanese Colonial Period (Eclecticism and Baroque): At the beginning of the 20th century, under Japanese administration, the central streets were lined with "machiya" (shophouses). The facades of these buildings often imitated European Baroque with stucco molding, arched windows, and decorative elements made of washed stone.
Post-War Modernism: Utilitarian concrete structures from the second half of the 20th century, typical of Taiwan's rapid urbanization.
Modern Earthquake-Resistant Architecture: After the devastating "921" earthquake in 1999, the city was partially rebuilt. New public buildings, such as museums and parks, are designed in a modern minimalist style with an emphasis on safety and integration with nature.
Iconic Buildings and Districts
Zhushan's urban development is best traced through its key architectural landmarks.
Lianxing Temple: A classic example of mid-18th-century temple architecture. The building has preserved its traditional layout, stone carvings, and woodwork, making it the oldest monument in the county.
Zhushan Old Street: An area where shophouse rows from the early 20th century remain. Here, one can see two-story buildings characteristic of the Japanese period, featuring elements of Western Classicism on their facades.
Chelungpu Fault Preservation Park: An example of modern architecture where the museum building is integrated into the landscape. The structure features complex geometry symbolizing the power of natural forces and serves an educational purpose.
Bamboo Cultural Park: A complex that combines modern exhibition pavilions with elements of traditional bamboo use in construction, highlighting the region's specialized craft.
Notable People
Figures Who Shaped the City
The history and culture of Zhushan are inextricably linked with the names of outstanding individuals. From the pioneers who laid the city's foundations to the artisans who brought it global fame, local residents carefully preserve the memory of those who put their hearts into the development of this region.
Historical Figures
Lin Pi (林圮) — Founder and Pioneer
A key historical figure of the 17th century, whose name is associated with the beginning of the active development of these lands. Lin Pi led a group of settlers who transformed the wild territories into fertile farmland and established the first permanent settlement. His contribution to the region's development was so significant that for a long time, the city bore the name Linpupu ("Lin Pi's Settlement") before being renamed Zhushan.
Masters of Bamboo Art
Zhushan deservedly holds the title of "Bamboo Capital," a status that would have been impossible without the talented masters whose work is recognized as a national treasure.
Huang Tu-shan (黃塗山) — Legendary Craftsman, "Living Treasure"
An outstanding master (1926–2020), born in Zhushan, who dedicated his entire life to the art of bamboo weaving. For preserving unique techniques and making an invaluable contribution to culture, he was officially honored with the title of Taiwan's "Living National Treasure." His works are a benchmark of craftsmanship, and his students continue to develop his school.
Liu Hsing-tse (劉興澤) — Innovative Artist
A talented student of Master Huang Tu-shan, who successfully combined ancient traditions with modern approaches. Liu Hsing-tse is known for perfecting material processing technologies, introducing methods for complex bamboo bending. His works are recognized as cultural heritage objects, and the master himself actively passes his knowledge to a new generation of artisans.
Chiu Chin-tuan (邱錦緞) — Educator and Designer
A renowned artist whose works are characterized by a graceful combination of traditional weaving and modern design. She plays a vital role in popularizing the craft, regularly conducting training programs and workshops at Zhushan's cultural centers, introducing tourists and locals to the intricacies of bamboo work.
Modern Heroes
Lai Jin-lian (賴金蓮) — Philanthropist, "Noodle Grandmother of Love"
A local legend and symbol of Zhushan's hospitality. The owner of a small noodle shop became famous for her selflessness: for decades, she provided free meals to the needy, students, and the lonely elderly. Her charitable initiative inspired many citizens to volunteer and became a shining example of community solidarity.