Townhouses of Wu Ru-siang, Historic commercial building in Datong Village, Taiwan.
The Townhouses of Wu Ru-siang are four interconnected structures in Datong Village that display Minnan architectural style with carved ornamentations, glazed tile roofs, and stone details. The buildings blend residential spaces with commercial areas while retaining their original design elements.
The buildings were constructed during the late Qing Dynasty when Wu Ru-siang, a prosperous merchant, established his residence in this emerging commercial district. The complex reflects a crucial period of urban development in the region.
The connected townhouses show how merchant families lived alongside their commercial operations in traditional Taiwanese neighborhoods. The stone carvings adorning the facades tell stories about the owner's profession and standing in the community.
The site is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate stone carvings and decorative details. The buildings are centrally located within the village and easily accessible on foot.
The four houses were not simply built next to each other but were physically connected, reflecting the economic efficiency practices of the era. This direct connection allowed the family to move seamlessly between commercial activities and living quarters.
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