From a Kendo training hall to a cultural hub, the serene charm of Qishan Martial Arts Hall

Next to the bustling Qishan Old Street, where the aroma of banana cakes fills the air, lies a space with a completely different rhythm. This tranquil and elegant old building is the Qishan Martial Arts Hall. It stands like a painting left behind by time, quietly narrating stories of "martial arts," "dignity," and "cultural integration" from the past. 🏛️ What is the Martial Arts Hall? Once a martial arts training venue, now a historical landmark The history of the Martial Arts Hall dates back to 1934 (during the Japanese colonial era), when the government established it as a training venue to promote the "spirit of martial arts" (such as Kendo and Judo). While Martial Arts Halls can be found across Taiwan, the Qishan Martial Arts Hall is the most well-preserved and largest, uniquely combining Shinto shrine styles with local craftsmanship. This site not only witnessed the development of martial arts but also serves as a microcosm of cultural policies and local societal interactions during the colonial period. 🌿 Architectural Features: Wooden Roof × Spacious Tatami × Serene Mortise-and-Tenon Craftsmanship The Qishan Martial Arts Hall is primarily constructed with wooden frameworks, featuring slanted roofs and mortise-and-tenon joints that showcase the warm texture of Japanese architecture. Stepping inside, the expansive wooden flooring and interplay of light and shadow make time seem to slow down. Whether it’s the clean lines of the black-tiled white walls on the exterior or the high ceilings and symmetrical structures inside, the atmosphere evokes the tranquil and sacred feeling reminiscent of "Spirited Away." 📸 Many travelers choose to wear yukata, martial arts uniforms, or cheongsams for photos, perfectly complementing the Japanese ambiance here. It’s one of the most iconic photo spots in Qishan. 🥋 Today, the Martial Arts Hall no longer hosts Kendo but serves as a venue for culture and exhibitions The Qishan Martial Arts Hall has transformed into a historical and cultural venue, hosting periodic art exhibitions, photography displays, and traditional art experiences. Here, you can view old photographs, vintage martial arts equipment, and participate in local tours to better understand Qishan’s cultural heritage. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stroll and escape the crowds, this is an excellent choice. 📍【Travel Tips】 Address: No. 33, Wenzhong Road, Qishan District, Kaohsiung City (next to Qishan Elementary School) Opening Hours: Daily 09:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays) Admission: Free Recommended Visit Duration: 30–60 minutes Nearby Attractions: Qishan Old Street, Qishan Station, Banana Culture Museum, Meinong Hakka Cultural Museum This is not just a tourist spot but a preserved piece of historical memory The Qishan Martial Arts Hall teaches us that historical buildings don’t need to be bustling; their beauty lies in the details, in the wooden pillars and sunlight, quietly narrating the era. When visiting Qishan, besides enjoying banana ice cream and exploring the old street, take some time to appreciate this Japanese-style ancient building and let yourself unwind.