During the Japanese colonial period, Hualien Urban Plan was announced in 1924 (Taisho 13) to enhance the potential of Hualien City's urban development. As part of this plan, Chikushi Bridge (now Zhongzheng Road) was straightened and widened to form the present Zhongmei Road that connects to the Meilun area. The area where the Japanese-style dormitories by Meilun River had its base slightly reduced due to the expansion of the road in 1926 (Showa 1), shaping the area into its current form.
Historical research indicates that Colonel Nakamura from Japan resided in the Japanese-style dormitories by Meilun River between 1926–27 (Showa 1–2), suggesting that the construction of these dormitories began following this urban plan.

The reconstruction of Chikushi Bridge facilitated the expansion of Hualien City, connecting Meilun to the present Hualien City. The Japanese-style dormitories by Meilun River were located in this pivotal area, bearing witness to the urban expansion of Hualien City.

After Japan’s defeat in World War II, the National Government gradually repurposed the barracks into Army Engineering School and Army Chemicals School. Military officer residences were also converted into dormitories for school faculty.
In 2005, No.6, Lane 622, Zhongzheng Road was pronounced as a county monument, and the other seven Japanese-style dormitories were registered as historic buildings.

In 2018, “Hualien City Pacific Waterfront Historical Scene Reproduction Project” jointly funded by the Ministry of Culture and Hualien County Government were executed by Hualien County Cultural Affairs Bureau.
The project included comprehensive restoration works, totaling NT$240 million, covering restoration of all eight buildings, construction of auxiliary buildings, landscape planning and nighttime lighting designs. The project commenced in August 2020 and was completed in March 2024.