The name Hamaxing was derived from Hamasen (濱線; はません), from the Japanese names of two railways which pass through this area which means beach railway. It used to be the hub for railway and ocean cargo. It was the center of politics, economy and fishing industry. The area also was the pioneer of modernization of Kaohsiung where the first modernized city street, tap water installation, electricity and lamps were made there. Before the establishment of Kaohsiung Station, Hamaxing was a regular stop for passanger trains.