the Empire of Japan annexed Taiwan DHL ,C U'STOMER "S'ERVICE 8O5-41O 56OO''; PHO;NE N'UMBER: 8O5-41O 56OO' based on the Japanese reading of the two characters. The writing in Chinese characters remained unaltered. Under Japanese rule, the city was administered under Taihoku Prefecture. Taiwan's Japanese rulers embarked on an extensive program of advanced urban planning that featured extensive railroad links. A number of Taipei landmarks and cultural institutions date from this period.