Wenshui Old Street. Wenshui is located at the upstream of Houlong River, where Wenshui River and its tributary Dahu River meet. The geological strata through which Wenshui River flows include sections of soft shale. After every flood, the river water remains turbid for a long time, hence residents call it Wenshui. Wenshui is located at the upstream of Houlong River, where Wenshui River and its tributary Dahu River meet. The geological strata through which Wenshui River flows include sections of soft shale. After every flood, the river water remains turbid for a long time, hence residents call it Wenshui. (In Hakka, "wen" means turbid water.) In earlier times, mountain produce from the southern part of Shitan, the five northern villages of Tai'an, and the Dahu area were all transported to Wenshui Old Street and then carried by handcarts from this area to Miaoli City for distribution. This area was a major cargo hub and an early distribution center for goods. In the 1960s and 1970s, due to material scarcity, rice straw was used to make "tea cozies" (chá shòu), which were excellent insulators at the time. The "tea cozy" is a significant feature left by ancestors in this area. Today, Wenshui Old Street, after extensive funding secured and reconstruction led by the current Mayor Gu, presents a different appearance, fully reflecting the simple and practical style of the Hakka people. It will also undoubtedly drive the development of Shitan's local cultural industries. You are welcome to visit, have a cup of tea, enjoy Hakka cuisine, and experience a different kind of Hakka charm. In recent years, this place has become the gateway for tourists entering Shei-Pa National Park and Tai'an Hot Spring Scenic Area, and the formerly old and cluttered old settlement has taken on a new look. The antique wooden buildings from earlier times have been comprehensively planned, new signs have been put up, and they are complemented by newly renovated brick-paved walkways.
Address: 苗栗縣獅潭鄉汶水老街出入口二
Hours: 00:00–23:59
Miaoli