Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

To prepare for the upcoming Taipei International Flora Exposition, the city government has set aside NT$60 million for renovating the Jianguo Holiday Commercial District. The overhauled marketplace has also been designated as the city’s first non-smoking shopping district.
Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin attended the special ceremony on July 17, which marks the reopening of the renovated market and the implementation of the smoking ban. Dignitaries taking part in the ribbon-cutting ritual include Mayor Hau’s wife Kao Lang-hsien, Economic Development Commissioner Chen Hsiung-wen, Health Commissioner Chiu Wen-hsiang, and representatives from four market self-governing organizations.
During his address, Hau pointed out that the flower market, the jade market, and the arts/culture special area (the three sites constitute the Jianguo Holiday Commercial District) are great places for leisure shopping; both he and his wife frequent the markets almost every month.
With the completion of renovation works, the jade market and the arts/culture area now have air conditioning. Furthermore, a sprinkler cooling system has been installed at the flower market. The mayor expressed his gratitude to residents and shop owners for tolerating the inconveniences during the renovation period.
Hau also served as the one-day salesman for the refurbished site, auctioning off a wide range of merchandises including tea products, potted plants, and jade bracelets. The organizers of the event also gave away gift vouchers to the audience.