HAKKA CULTURE IN THE MOUNTAINS OF MIAOLI
Nanzhuang Old Street is located in Nanzhuang Village, the administrative center of Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County. On account of its large Hakka population, the town exudes a strong sense of nostalgic Hakka culture and is often crowded during the holidays. The town has some architectural attractions such as Yongchang Temple, the old Japanese-style post office, Guihua Lane, and Kangji Suspension Bridge, but the primary reason people come to Nanzhuang is to experience the area’s relaxed atmosphere, enjoy numerous mountainside cafes and delicious eateries, participate in creative and cultural workshops, and relax at one of the countless family-run bed and breakfasts.
Nanzhuang Old Street Area
Nanzhuang Old Street is centered around Zhongzheng Road. Shops on both sides of the street and in nearby alleys sell local products, souvenirs, and traditional Hakka cuisine. The current landscape of two-story Japanese-style wooden buildings on either side of the street is the result of a restoration project after severe damage was dealt to the town during the deadly 1935 Shinchiku-Taichū earthquake. This is in contrast to the collapsed Longteng Bridge, located to the west in Sanyi, which was never repaired after being damaged in the earthquake, and now serves as a reminder to nature’s power.
Guihua “Osmanthus” Lane
Guihua Lane is one of the most happening streets in Nanzhuang’s historic district. Many shops along this narrow alley sell one of Nanzhuang’s most famous souvenirs, osmanthus wine. With support from the local government and businesses revitalization grants, the lane and its surrounding area have become one of the most well-known communities in Nanzhuang, and the alley has replaced Zhongzheng Road as the focal point of the Nanzhuang Old Street area.
Local Specialties
Local must-try snacks include Hakka-style rice cakes, all kinds of Hakka cuisine, osmanthus wine, zongzi with pork and ginger, osmanthus-flavored chilled tangyuan (glutinous rice balls), osmanthus plums, “lei cha” (pounded tea), and braised tofu.
Kanji Suspension Bridge
The Kangji Suspension Bridge, also referred to as “Nanzhuang Suspension Bridge,” is a 154-meter-long suspension bridge that connects Nanzhuang Old Street with Nanjiang Old Street on the opposite side of the river. Standing on the bridge, one can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Penglai River Valley and take a breath from the crowds of the historic district.
