Chiayi City's Dr. Huang Wen Residence Restored, Reviving 'Tsunamoto Kissaten' Charm

The former residence of Dr. Huang Wen in Chiayi City, a designated municipal monument, has been revitalized and reopened as 'Tsunamoto Kissaten' after more than a decade of assessments, investigations, and restoration work. The 95-year-old building, which has a rich history, was severely damaged before the restoration efforts began.

Local historical groups, the current owners, and the Chiayi City Cultural Affairs Bureau collaborated for over ten years. This partnership facilitated the cultural asset value assessment, detailed investigations, and the eventual restoration engineering. The site officially reopened today, aiming to bring back its former glory.

The historic structure is located at 226 Minsheng North Road in Chiayi City. It was initially built in 1931 by Japanese physician Torajiro Sakai. In 1935, it served as the 'Tsunamoto Kissaten Shokudo' (a cafe and dining hall). Following a change in political administration, it became the clinic and residence of Dr. Huang Wen in 1958. It was designated a commemorative building in 2017 and a municipal monument in 2020.

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We hope that after the issues of minor leaks and structural integrity are resolved, we can hand it over to our son and daughter-in-law to manage, and continue to pass on this precious cultural asset to the next generation.

The restoration project commenced in 2023 and concluded in April of this year, with a total budget of NT$27.53 million, funded by 90% government subsidy and 10% owner contribution. The project overcame numerous challenges, including three failed bids, high groundwater levels, design modifications, and water leakage caused by the demolition of adjacent properties.

At the reopening ceremony, the owner, dermatologist Dr. Wang Bo-zhi, expressed gratitude for the support from local historical groups and the Chiayi City Cultural Affairs Bureau. He hopes that once issues like minor leaks and structural integrity are resolved, his son and daughter-in-law will manage the property, ensuring its continued legacy for the next generation. Mayor Huang Min-hui, during a tour guided by Wang's son and daughter-in-law, praised the blend of old and new, noting the preservation of Japanese-era architectural elements like bamboo-and-mud walls, original wiring, and a radial staircase. She also highlighted the inclusion of modern amenities like an elevator for accessibility, commending the owners for breathing new life into the historic building.

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They have injected new soul into the old building.