Located on the banks of the Tianliao River in Keelung, the Yi Er Road commercial district is a commercial cluster with historical charm. Compared to the Ai Liu Road commercial district, Yi Er Road is much larger, extending from Xin Yi Road to Xin San Road. Due to its proximity to the Miaokou Night Market, Yi Er Road is also much more lively.
During the Qing Dynasty, Yi'er Road was originally an irregular shallow coastal area, making it the location of official patrol posts. Located next to a small hill overlooking the harbor, it was a key area for patrolling and monitoring ship activity, and was known as "Sentry Point." Large-scale government offices and financial institutions were built here, making it an administrative, financial, and economic center, and the commercial district began to take shape at this time. After the Japanese took control of Keelung, they actively pursued plans to develop new urban areas. In addition to building a canal from the Tianliao River, they reclaimed land from the sea, resulting in better sanitation and living conditions in the new urban areas. Coupled with its proximity to Keelung Harbor and convenient transportation, creating a favorable investment environment, the Japanese settled here, forming a dense commercial district, even earning the nickname "Keelung Ginza."
After being renovated, the old, quaint streets have been transformed into a neat, rich, and culturally rich new look. With the guidance of the Department of Commerce, the Yier Road commercial district in Keelung will rapidly enhance its competitiveness and recreate its historical glory. With the vision of becoming a "new lifestyle commercial district along the Tianliao River," it will continue to promote the "Weekend Pedestrian Zone." Street performers and the aroma of coffee will be present throughout the commercial district, gradually showcasing the design and efforts of local cultural creativity. Shops line the streets, selling a variety of goods and snacks, and there is also a cinema interspersed along the way. With a wide selection of food, drinks, and entertainment, the Yier Road commercial district is even more colorful and vibrant.
Strolling along the Yier Road shopping district, surrounded by Baroque buildings, one can't help but reminisce about the heyday of Keelung's Ginza district, founded by the Japanese in 1913. Back then, as the sun set, men and women in kimonos and Western suits would mingle with the jingling of horse-drawn carriages, enjoying the aromas of sake and food, the sounds of singing and dancing, and the bustling crowds. Some would watch performances in theaters, while others would cheer excitedly in sumo wrestling arenas. This was the leisurely life of the Japanese at the time. From a fishing village, it transformed into the once-glorious Keelung Ginza, and over time, the Yier Road shopping district has become what it is today.