Old Houses of Dexing Village

Chiayi County's traditional industries have historically been primarily agricultural. Consequently, traditional Southern Fujianese-style *sanheyuan* (three-sided courtyard) buildings are scattered throughout the region and are almost ubiquitous. Among these, the chessboard-pattern *sanheyuan* cluster in Dexing Village, Puzi City, is the most distinctive. Dexing Village, also known as Xinjizhuang, features *sanheyuan* clusters that are all oriented to face south. These traditional red-brick and and tile houses, in the fast-moving course of history, were not originally given much attention. Furthermore, as times changed and modern high-rises began to emerge all around them, these chessboard-pattern *sanheyuan* clusters found themselves sandwiched between new developments, appearing particularly out of place and clashing with their surroundings. Later, the older generation of residents in Dexing Community had a sudden inspiration and decided to revitalize the alleyways and environment, beginning to plant flowers and grass, and greening and decorating the facades. Consequently, Dexing Village can be said to be the earliest community in Chiayi County to integrate into alleyway planning and renovation projects. All residents, young and old, worked together seamlessly and tirelessly to preserve and beautify the three east-west and four north-south alleyways within the village, as well as 112 traditional five-bay *sanheyuan* homes. To this day, these chessboard-pattern *sanheyuan* clusters, having preserved their original appearance, have transformed into the community's treasured gems, imbued with a rich humanistic atmosphere. Each year, they attract countless tourists, students and faculty from architecture-related departments, as well as private organizations and cultural-historical workers, who come to visit. In 2004 (ROC year 93), it was furthermore recognized by the Ministry of the Interior as an 'Outstanding Community' in its community development work evaluation, truly a great source of pride for all residents of Dexing Village.