Duiyue Gate, City gate in West Central District, Taiwan
Duiyue Gate is a city gate in West Central District, Taichung, featuring a rounded archway built from coral stone and red brick. An interior staircase inside leads to the top of the wall, where visitors can survey the surrounding neighborhood.
The gate was built in 1836 during the Qing Dynasty as part of an expansion program pushing the city westward toward the Taiwan Strait. It was constructed alongside two other gates to serve the growing settlement's defensive and organizational needs.
The gate once marked the boundary between the city and open farmland to the west, serving as a symbolic threshold for travelers entering from the coast. Today it represents an important landmark in how residents connect with their city's past.
Access to the gate is straightforward, though the interior staircase is steep and sturdy footwear is advised. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the site is less crowded and the light is softer for viewing.
The use of coral stone in the construction was unusual for city gates and gave rise to its local name, Coral Stone Outer Gate. This choice of material reflects the city's proximity to the coast and the resourcefulness of local builders.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
