新竹東門市場

Hsinchu Dongmen Market

October 23rd, 2024

Dongmen Market (東門市場) in Hsinchu City was originally established in 1900 only to be replaced by a greatly expanded second-generation building in 1911. This market prospered throughout the Japanese colonial era but was heavily bombed by US forces in World War 2 and demolished shortly thereafter.

Inside Hsinchu Dongmen Market (新竹東門市場) — One of several grim courtyards within the sprawling market complex.

The current Dongmen Market building was completed in 1977 with space for more than 500 vendors. It was a trendy place to shop in the 1980s but the introduction of modern malls and department stores in the 1990s resulted in a decline in business.

Wandering Through Hsinchu Dongmen Market (新竹東門市場) — Prowling through the upper levels of Dongmen Market some forlorn night.

Heading into the 2010s the market was really showing its age, inviting discussion of urban renewal. Whereas many such buildings end up demolished and reconstructed in a more modern style, by the mid-2010s much of the upper market building was repurposed for youth entrepreneurship in the form of small artist studios and boutique shops. Meanwhile, back at ground level, a variety of themed eateries opened, attracting students and office workers interested in cheap eats with a vintage vibe.