Introduction

The Official Reception Stone Arch is one of only four remaining stone arches in Tainan City and is considered the most magnificent and ornate among them. Constructed during the Qing Dynasty, the arch features a three-bay, four-pillar, two-story design made entirely of granite, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. It is located in front of the Fengshen(God of Wind) Temple.

During the Qianlong period, the Taiwan Prefecture Governor undertook the renovation of the temple and the construction of official residences and pavilions to serve as venues for receiving imperial edicts and welcoming officials. Behind the arch stood a pair of stone drum towers, used to announce the arrival of dignitaries or for morning and evening chimes. In the Japanese colonial era, many of these structures, including the temple and official residences, were dismantled. After World War II, the drum towers were also removed, leaving only the stone arch standing today.​

Historically, a river separated the Prefectural City and Anping. Officials arriving in Taiwan would travel by boat. Recognizing this location as the junction between sea and land, Governor Jiang Yuanshu commissioned the construction of the Official Reception Stone Arch and a dock to create a grand and imposing entrance for incoming officials. In the past, only officials could pass through the arch; today, it is accessible to everyone. The area that once marked the transition from port to land is now paved with asphalt roads, offering a unique blend of historical significance and modern development.

Attraction Information:

Address: No. 7, Lane 143, Section 3, Minquan Road, West Central District, Tainan City​

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours​

Transportation Information:

By Public Transportation:

Take the train to Tainan Railway Station, walk to the South Station, and board Bus No. 7. Disembark at the Ximen Road Entrance stop, head north, turn left onto Heping Street, and then right onto Kangle Street to reach the destination.​

By Car:

From Tainan Railway Station, proceed to the roundabout and take Zhongshan Road. Continue straight to another roundabout and take Minsheng Road. Follow Minsheng Road Section 2, turn right onto Kangle Street, and the Official Reception Stone Arch will be on the left side, near the intersection of Kangle Street and Heping Street.