During the period of Japanese rule, the Nanmen Market served as an outdoor marketplace of Chitose Town beyond the South Gate. Over time, it has seen multiple renovations and is Taipei's oldest public traditional market. It has been known for its offerings of Jiangsu and Zhejiang cuisine and dry foods. However, due to its outdated structure and inadequate mechanical and electrical systems for modern market demands, the Taipei City Government initiated the Nanmen Building and Market Reconstruction Turnkey Project.
This project, centered around the design concept of “Taipei's Heartbeat,” focuses on bringing abundant natural light from the north into the indoor space, making this market area bright and open. The new Nanmen Building is located near the entrances and exits of the two metro lines, forming a tight connection with the city and linking the transportation system with the market. This fosters a mutually beneficial relationship and encourages purchases, enhancing the market's vitality.