Bingwu Earthquake Memorial Monument — Traces of Post-Disaster Reconstruction ~ Taiwan is prone to earthquakes, with several major tremors during the Japanese colonial era.

Bingwu Earthquake Memorial Monument. Traces of Post-Disaster Reconstruction ~ Taiwan is prone to earthquakes, with several major tremors during the Japanese colonial era. Traces of Post-Disaster Reconstruction ~ Taiwan is prone to earthquakes, with several major tremors during the Japanese colonial era. At 6 AM on March 17, Meiji 39 (1906), a major earthquake occurred (lasting over four minutes). The epicenter was between Minxiong and Meishan, causing many casualties and severe damage to buildings. Continuous aftershocks killed over 1,200 people, and most buildings in Chiayi city were destroyed. The administration took the opportunity to plan a city redevelopment project, laying the foundation for the current Chiayi urban area. A stone monument titled "Record of the Earthquake Disaster" was erected after this earthquake, possibly the first earthquake memorial monument in Taiwan, with text by Zhuang Borong. After World War II, it was renamed the "Youth Recreation Center." In March 2001, the Cultural Affairs Bureau restored it. Site Construction: Erected: Meiji 39 (1906 AD) Restored: March 2001 AD Address: 嘉義市東區草地尾民權路 Hours: 00:00–23:59 Chiayi