dangerous (risk of collapse, dogs)
The imposing main building of the China Electric Chemical Factory (中國電氣化學廠彰化) is gradually being reclaimed by nature.
The factory is open to the public and can be easily found with a good sense of direction. It is located at the foot of Baguashan, near the Hongmao Well. Surprisingly, there is no information about this company on the internet, only a few unverified explanations. I have already asked clients and friends from Changhua to look into it, but so far without success. The reference to “China” in the name suggests that the factory was founded at a very early time. The entrance is easily accessible.
The main entrance is blocked and overgrown, but access is easily possible from the side. As so often, the banyan trees are taking their toll on the building.
The front hall is still intact but should only be entered with caution. The intermediate ceilings and the roof are severely damaged. There is no trace of the original equipment, making it difficult to imagine what was once produced here. The staircase leading to the upper floor looks unstable.
The rear buildings are overgrown, and I didn’t have a knife with me.
Some buildings in the back appear to be former company housing. I will continue trying to find more information about the factory.
Second visit in May 2025
I was there for the second time after a few weeks. The large gate is so damaged that you can only climb in from the side. It’s possible, but more difficult, because the ground is covered with old construction debris and glass. This time I was able to get to the second floor—it wasn’t as dangerous. Enjoy it.
I asked some people, but no one remembers the company. Until I met an old man. He couldn’t recall exactly when it was closed—he said 30 to 40 years ago. He emphasized the solid construction of the building. Apparently, they used to produce casting molds. That seems logical when I look at the equipment, but the name suggests otherwise.
(copyright Claudius Petzold)
