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Historic Treasure: The architectural style of the train station is eclectic, with a reinforced concrete structure, symmetrical classical style, and simplified gables and geometric pattern decorations, blended with a modern horizontal simplicity. The station serves as the gateway to Chiayi City and is closely tied to the city's development. Since the completion of the longitudinal railway, it has been a transportation hub and a focal point for urban development. The station building represents a significant public architecture that symbolizes the locality and holds historical significance. The station's location on Zhongshan Road, which leads directly to Chiayi Park, east-west, is called the "Daton". The surrounding areas use the Chiayi train station as an entrance and exit, making it the geographical center of the city. During Japan's 50-year rule over Taiwan, the construction of the Taiwan longitudinal railway aimed to facilitate governance and exploit rich natural resources. The Chiayi train station spurred the growth of Chiayi City from a simple cross-shaped street during the Qing dynasty to a thriving city. The longitudinal railway divided Chiayi City into two parts: the front station area, which experienced rapid commercial growth, with most commercial districts located in the southeast; and the vast northwest area behind the station, which had little development. The platform canopy is uniquely constructed with I-beam frames, similar to the railway tracks, curved and processed, which is quite special. It was once a station that integrated passenger, freight, sugar, and material transportation, with diverse functions and significant status. Historical Encyclopedia: In 1896 (Meiji 29), a wooden single-story station was built with Japanese tile sloping roofs and rain boards on the exterior walls. In 1933 (Showa 8), it was rebuilt into the existing station building. The Chiayi train station is a major stop along the longitudinal railway and the starting point of the Alishan Forest Railway, with busy transportation operations. The station's base is vast, allowing for future underground renovation plans while preserving part of the original structure. The lobby and waiting rooms are spacious, accommodating the increasing number of passengers buying tickets and waiting. It was the first scene of the execution of Taiwanese elites during the 228 Incident in 1947.