Chiayi City

Chiayi City
Name	Chiayi City
Native name	嘉義市
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	23, 29, N, 120...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Taiwan
Subdivision type1	Province
Subdivision name1	Taiwan Province
Established title	City status
Established date	1930
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Huang Min-hui
Area total km2	60.0256
Population total	264,858
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	National Standard Time
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	600
Area code	(0)5
Website	https://www.chiayi.gov.tw/

Chiayi City. It is a county-administered city and the seat of Chiayi County, located on the plains of southwestern Taiwan. Historically known as Kagee during the Dutch Formosa period and later as Tsu-lo-san, it has evolved from a walled administrative center into a vibrant cultural hub. The city is renowned for its rich history, distinctive local cuisine, and as the gateway to the scenic Alishan National Scenic Area.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Hoanya people, a Plains indigenous tribe. During the era of Dutch Formosa, the settlement was known as Kagee and became a site for pacification and trade. Under the Kingdom of Tungning and subsequent Qing dynasty rule, it was developed as Tsu-lo-san and later Chiayi, becoming a fortified walled city and an important administrative center in Taiwan Prefecture. The city was a significant site during the Japanese invasion of 1895 and later underwent modernization under Japanese rule, including the construction of the Alishan Forest Railway. It was officially granted city status in 1930. Following the retrocession of Taiwan to the Republic of China, it served as the provincial capital of Taiwan Province from 1950 to 1956.

Geography

Chiayi City is situated on the Jianan Plain, with the Bazhang River flowing to the north. The urban area is relatively flat, facilitating its historical development as an agricultural and transport center. Its location provides strategic access to the mountainous central region, notably serving as the eastern terminus for the Alishan Forest Railway which climbs into the Alishan range. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, influenced by the Taiwan Strait to the west.

Demographics

As of 2023, the city has a population of approximately 265,000 people. The majority are Hoklo people, with significant communities of Hakka and mainland Chinese descendants. The city is also home to a number of adherents of various religious faiths, with prominent temples including Chiayi City God Temple and Chiayi Confucius Temple. Key educational institutions such as National Chung Cheng University and National Chiayi University contribute to its demographic profile.

Economy

Traditionally an agricultural market center for the surrounding Jianan Plain, known for rice and pineapples, Chiayi's economy has diversified. It remains a hub for the forestry industry historically linked to the Alishan Forest Railway. Manufacturing sectors include food processing, precision machinery, and biotechnology. The city's role as a transport node, served by the Taiwan High Speed Rail at Chiayi HSR station and the Taiwan Railways Administration network, supports commerce and tourism, particularly for visitors traveling to Alishan National Scenic Area.

Culture and landmarks

Chiayi is famous for its culinary tradition, especially Chiayi turkey rice. The city hosts the annual Chiayi International Band Festival and the Chiayi City Fringe Festival. Notable landmarks include the historic Chiayi Park, which houses the Chiayi Tower and the Sun Shooting Tower. The Hinoki Village showcases preserved Japanese-era cypress buildings. Religious sites like the Chiayi City God Temple and the Chiayi Confucius Temple are central to local culture. The National Palace Museum Southern Branch, located in neighboring Taibao City, is a major cultural institution for the region.

Government

Chiayi City is governed by the Chiayi City Government, headed by Mayor Huang Min-hui. The city council, the Chiayi City Council, functions as the local legislative body. As a county-administered city, it falls under the jurisdiction of Chiayi County, with the Chiayi County Government located within its borders. The city is part of the Chiayi County constituency for legislative elections to the Legislative Yuan.

Category:Chiayi City Category:Cities in Taiwan Category:County-administered cities of Taiwan