[ { "DataSN": "4141504", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=33C03962E14A13F2", "title": "Nanmon-cho 323 – The Reappearance of a Japanese Zen Garden", "Content": "With over a century of history, the Taipei Botanical Garden is home to more than 1,600 kinds of plants. Quiet and tranquil, it is a treasured green oasis away from the city bustle. Beside the tranquil lotus pond is a bungalow-style wooden structure built during the Japanese era. After Taiwan was returned to Chinese rule in 1945, it was used for a time as a staff quarters by the Executive Yuan Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Research Institute (行政院農委會林業試驗所), but was eventually abandoned, and allowed to decay. The institute has now thoroughly renovated the building, reproducing the elegant style of the Japanese garden, and in accordance with Japanese-period cadastral information has renamed it Nanmon-cho 323 (南門町三二三).To repair the dilapidated main building, the Forestry Research Institute invited two internationally renowned architects, Kuo Chungrui (郭中端) and Horigome Kenji, to come together as a team. According to Kuo, many historical documents show that the grounds of the Taipei Botanical Garden were often used as a key site for the staging of expositions by the Japanese during the occupation period, and that in its early days Nanmon-cho 323 served as a teahouse where guests were received. Therefore, the building’s design and construction was very different from the standard Japanese house. Professor Horigome, who is from Japan, is an expert in traditional Japanese wood architecture. Conducting research on the original structure and appearance, he and Kuo were able to rebuild and restore the building where needed to recreate its original appearance. Walk in the front entrance and you can inspect what is called shoin-zukun design: the doma, a space for household life with central and adjoining rooms, separated by fusuma, sliding panels of thick paper that act as doors. There is also an interior zashiki, a sitting room or parlor for entertaining guests, and a drawing room, where you can get a good feel for how visitors were received during the Japanese era. Information Taipei Botanical Garden – Nanmon-cho 323 台北植物園──南門町三二三 Add: 53, Nanhai Rd. (南海路53號) Tel: (02)2303-9978 ext. 1420 Time: 09:30~16:00,15 visitors allowed in every 30 minutes (closed on Mon) The Forestry Research Institute also invited wellknown Japanese garden-landscaping master Oguchi Motomi, from Nagano, to create a Zen garden in the inimitable karesansui garden style, perhaps Japan’s most representative. Such gardens are considered “Zen” because they seek “emptiness” at their core, using coniferous plants. The gravel garden landscaping is sculpted using a handheld wooden rake, and the raking motions are highly practiced, almost as if in slow-motion, with the curving raked lines said to reflect the wave-like emotions of the soul. It is said that this style helps purify and heal the souls of visitors otherwise immersed in the fast, disconcerting pace of modern life.In the subtle, minimalist outdoor-garden design, rocks are symbolic of mountains, while the raked gravel represents flowing water. While savoring the Eastern Zen ambience, visitors should look for another special touch, the small “turtle” and “crane” islands floating amidst the faux waters. These animals – and thus the islands – symbolize longevity. Oguchi’s hope is that when visitors spend time in his karesansui garden they’ll feel as though in a celestial realm, able to calm their spirits through the ethereal tranquility of Japanese Zen Buddhism.Nanmon-cho 323 is hidden away in Taipei Botanical Garden. The black-tinted Japanese structure, surrounding emerald-green foliage, and snow-white gravel all contrast compellingly with each other, exuding a sense of tranquility. Come here on a winter afternoon and soak in this place’s proud old character. Make time to also visit the nearby Guest House of Imperial Envoys (欽差行臺), a city heritage site, and the National Museum of History (國立歷史博物館), and enjoy these examples of Taipei’s rich cultural inheritance. Nanmon-cho 323 is a bungalow-style wooden structure built during the Japanese era. After the renovation by the Executive Yuan Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Research Institute, it has reproduced the elegant style of the Japanese garden. The interior includes zashiki, a sitting room or parlor for entertaining guests, and a drawing room, where you can get a good feel for how visitors were received during the Japanese era. When visiting here, the tourists will experience not only the spirit of mountains and flowing water, but also the ambience of Eastern Zen. The small “turtle” and “crane” islands in Zen garden, designed by well-known Japanese garden-landscaping master Oguchi Motomi, symbolize longevity. The black-tinted Japanese structure is hidden away in Taipei Botanical Garden, the treasured green oasis full of quietness and natural ecology. ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141503", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=F7A89B25EC2A2B26", "title": "The Veil Lifted Anew –Grass Mountain Chateau, Chiang Kai-shek’s First Taiwan Villa", "Content": " The ray s of spr i ng are begi n n i ng to warm Yangmingshan Park and the cherry blossoms are bursting open, so what better time to follow the path beside the park's No. 1 Car Park, where you'll come upon a refined Japanese-style villa named Grass Mountain Chateau, hidden away amongst cooling shade trees.The villa was specially built in the 1920s in anticipation of a visit to Taiwan by Crown Prince Hirohito, and in 1949, when ROC President Chiang Kai-shek first came to live on Taiwan, he chose the villa as his first residence, moving downhill six monthslater to today's Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence and using this site as his summer retreat. In 2003 the city's Department of Cultural Affairs began restoration work on the site, transforming it into a culturalarts salon. In 2007 a fire ravaged the facility, destroying everything but the main entrance, red-brick exterior wall, and entrance-area statue of Chiang. The city once again went to work, restoring the villa to its original glory using file photos, computer-simulation technology, traditional construction methods, and materials. The chateau doors once more swung open to the public on December 30th last year. Information Grass Mountain Chateau Add: 89, Hudi Rd. Tel: (02) 2862-2404 Hours: Tues~Sun (closed Mon), 10:00~17:00 (food service to 21:00) Website: www.grassmountainchateau.com.tw (Chinese) 92 Art Center Add: 92, Hudi Rd. Tel: (02) 2862-2404 Hours: Tues~Sun (closed Mon), 10:00~17:00In the grounds is a little tree-shaded path that leads you to an expansive wooden deck, stone gateway, and new board inscribed with the characters for“Grass Mountain Chateau.”Inside the entrance is the repaired coatroom, now a small gift shop offering many chateau-themed souvenir items. These include seasonal-theme items with a portrait of the Chiangs, plus Grass Mountain Chateau bookbags, and so on. Next is an expansive, brightly lit room with an attractive wood floor and large wood-frame windows, where late President Chiang entertained guests. Today the space is used as a gallery for the works of local Taiwan artists, and also houses a display guide on the local landscape and on the history of the chateau. The seats in the middle of the room have been made with the black, charred remains of the original ceiling beams,reminding visitors of the 2007 fire.Beyond the display space and dining facility in the reception room, sparkling views of the Guandu Plain far below can be enjoyed from under the eaves of the outside veranda.As you might imagine, this is a favorite spot with visitors. Elsewhere, check out the meticulous reproduction of the bamboo lath and wood lath on two exposed display sections in the indoor hallway, showing Japanese construction methods used in the 1920s. Jieshou Hall, at the rear of the building, is where Chiang Kai-shek met with his most trusted subordinates; today it houses a history display with vintage photographs, historical artefacts, and a documentary film on the chateau. Behind the hall is a wide, open porch built of timber where the first couple would sit for tea, have a hot-spring bath, or enjoy the scenery. Today thick foliage encloses the scene.Before leaving, sit down in the dining area for a round of home-style“lion's head meatballs” and steamed sweet potato, one of Chiang Kai-shek's favorite dishes. And don't forget to take a quick look at the four other buildings elsewhere on the grounds, all originally residential units used by Chiang's retinue. One is now the home of 92 Art Center, an artexhibition space, and the other three buildings, smaller and numbered 88, 91, and 95, are used as studios for artists-in-residence and as cultural-arts spaces. The four add an element of colorful artistic flair to the elegant and reserved personality of this Yangmingshan treasure, where the interweaving of natural beauty, history, and art giving rise to a unique cultural oasis that has, literally, risen from the ashes.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141502", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=69BF40952218D585", "title": "Minglun Hall at the Taipei Confucius Temple becomes a 4D Theater", "Content": "Take a tour of the Taipei Confucius Temple at the moment and you're sure to discover a creative new way of showcasing traditional culture. The temple is a popular spot with locals and foreigners looking for tranquility and old customs, and with the surge in interest in all things Confucian in recent years the Taipei City Govenment has taken active measures to promote understanding of this crucial aspect of Chinese culture. Now, in a startling innovation for such a decidedly solemn and august venue, the Minglun Hall at Taipei Confucius Temple has been transformed into a4D theater! This temple is a key heritage site, and a fine example of traditional temple architecture from Fujian, a province in southern China from where the majority of Taiwanese originally came, centuries ago. While there be sure to take in the Taipei Confucius Temple Six Arts Experience Multimedia Exhibit, an interactive installation that teaches you about the life of Confucius, the special features of the ancient Yi Dance, the system of Confucian rituals, and other fascinating topics. Travel through time and space for a visit with the Foremost Sage and Teacher and a stimulating session of cultural exchange. InformationTaipei Confucius Temple Add: 275 Dalong St. Tel: (02) 2592-3934 Hours: Tue-Sat 08:30~21:00, Sun and national holidays 08:30~17:00 (closed Mon) Website: http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/636/attachment/4141502/home.htm The good people that take care of the Confucius Temple have also asked experts on Confucianism, theater design consultants and multimedia companies to work together in making the grand transformation of Minglun Hall into a 4D theater, where two 4D virtual-reality special-effects films are now being shown. The two films are entitled Confucius and Taipei Confucius Temple. In the 13 minute-long first film, experts explore the significance of historical references to the Spring and Autumn and the Warring States periods, as well as images of other related subjects such as dress, sculptures of Confucius, and the elderly and aging. Traditional glove-puppet theater plays a key role in this novel presentation, transporting you into the life of Confucius and regaling you with wondrous 4D special effects such as falling snowflakes all around, as well as pulsating vibrations. Expect to be immersed in an innovative world of sensation the like of which you'venever experienced before! ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141501", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=CBC86B37AFE07F31", "title": "Academia Sinica", "Content": "Academia Sinica, the most preeminent academic institution in the Republic of China, was founded in 1928 to promote and undertake scholarly research in sciences and humanities. After the government moved to Taiwan in 1949, Academia Sinica was re-established in Taipei. The growth of Academia Sinica during the transition period was initially slow due to political instability and meager budgets.Thanks to the great efforts of the past Presidents, especially former President Yuan-Tseh Lee, Academia Sinica overcame many difficulties to reach its present success. It is now a modern research institution with a worldwide reputation and a proud tradition. Under the leadership of current President Chi-Huey Wong, Academia Sinica is making further progress in improving research conditions and results. Many of the twenty-four research institutes and seven research centers are now headed by world-renowned scholars and staffed by highly trained, motivated, and creative young investigators. Major strides have also been made toward raising the standards of academic research, and Academia Sinica is presently positioning itself to move its research activities to the international level. Aside from placing greater emphasis on opening up new areas of intellectual endeavor, Academia Sinica is also taking a leadership role in launching new initiatives in applied areas to meet a broad spectrum of social needs in Taiwan.In order to fulfill these goals, Academia Sinica has adopted various measures to promote the internal integration of research activities in the three research disciplines of mathematics and physical sciences, life sciences, and humanities and social sciences; to improve the planning, implementation, and evaluation of long-term projects in order to enhance the impact of the research activities; to harness basic research results for applications and technology transfer; to engage the entire academic and research community in Taiwan in a modern and forward-looking collective academic vision; to cultivate an intellectual environment that is conducive to the nurturing of young scholars and the recognition of outstanding scholarship in Taiwan; and to promote international cooperation and scholarly exchanges that will accelerate the overall development of academic research in Academia Sinica and the Republic of China. Website: Acadmia SinicaSource: Nankang District Office ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141500", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=CACD517AF9DB9C9E", "title": "The New Confucianism of Taipei Confucius Temple", "Content": "Taipei life is blessed with the ability to make the old into something completely new while faithfully preserving its essence. In this way, the story of things old continues to move those \"new\" to the world. A prime example of this is the Taipei Confucius Temple, a National Historical Relic of the Third Rank, popular with local and overseas visitors looking to witness the carrying out of authentic Confucian rites and ceremonies. The temple complex has undergone a thorough renovation in recent years, restoring its true luster, and at the same time many interactive design elements have been introduced, both in terms of hard and soft facilities. The result is maximized enjoyment and enlightenment at all times, but especially should you come to the events annually held on Teachers' Day, Sep. 28. Ancient Rites．Tea Fragrance – Innovative Cultural Experiences in New StyleYou may not have known that in this solemn place where the Great Sage is venerated, each and every Saturday night you can come watch a show! Following the practice elsewhere in Taiwan and overseas where heritage sites are used as attractive stages, plays telling stories of history and traditional music and dance presentations are staged here. Until Oct. 1 you can see the Taipei Confucius Temple Situation Play—The Legend of Confucius Temple Trilogy being presented by Six Art Theatre, the first such history-focused show presented in a historical site. Currently on show is the second part of the trilogy, Child's Time-Traveling Journey: Hauhau, the Fairy Orchid, and Confucius, starting Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Come sit in a history-rich venue before a temple hall, following the young actors as they lead you through time, and learn more of the timeless importance of the Confucian culture and the keys to understanding that Confucius provided to all.Beyond the theatrical presentations, you can also take advantage of the ongoing program entitled Revitalizing Confucianism—A Journey through the Confucius Temple: Display, Presentation, and Experience, which presents ancient Confucian rites and ceremonies in authentic form. This program is one component of the city's Taipei Confucius Temple Historic District Tourism Revitalization Project. Until Oct. 30, you can take in the \"Temple Circling Ritual\", an incense-prayer ceremony, daily before 9 a.m., with dancers holding ancient-style ceremonial instruments leading visitors in with their temple-supplied wooden \"veneration blessing cards\", moving about the complex and conducting Confucius veneration rites. From 9 to 9:30 a.m. is the Ya Yue Dance performance. This features an adaptation of the classic Yi Dance performed during Confucius-veneration rites in ancient China, with sacrifices of splendid color and solemnity made to Heaven and Earth, the ancients, and the temple itself. These are today sights rarely seen, and this an opportunity not to be passed up on.In the afternoon is the Gentleman's Tea Ritual, with 50 applicants accepted each time for the activity, which is free. It is held Tue~Fri and on Sunday at 3 p.m. (there is also a session on Sat and Sun at 10 a.m.). At each session, a master of the teadrinking art teaches visitors the proper time-honored procedures that form the tea brewing and drinking ritual. As you sit in the quiet complex contemplating your hot warming tea, your teacher's instructions, and the special scene you find yourself in, you may well be carried back to your old school days and contemplate once more the time-honored teacher-student relationship.A good idea is to come earlier in the afternoon before the tea-ritual session to go through the temple complex with the assistance of the audio-guide facilities. It's free, and you have the choice of service in English, Chinese, Japanese, or Korean. The tour takes about an hour, and the content includes a comprehensive introduction of the temple's spaces, the architecture and workmanship, the stories of Confucius and of his disciples, and other matters of interest—including introduction of other key nearby attractions such as Baoan Temple and Dalong Night Market.A Grand Annual Gathering – The Confucius CeremonyThe elaborate Confucius Ceremony is the event of the year at Taipei Confucius Temple, conducted on the birthday of the Great Sage, Sep. 28, named Teachers' Day in his honor. Authentic ancient rites first carried out 2,000 years ago are faithfully reenacted— key rituals carried out in all dynasties, heavily laden with meaning and symbolism. The eight musical instruments of classical times are played, present the elegant Dacheng Suite Confucius ceremony music from the Song Dynasty. The Yi Dance component of the Ya Yue Dance is presented, which originally took form at the Ming Dynasty court. There is then a grand ceremonial opening of the gates, receiving of the spirits, sacrificial feast presentation, incense ritual,\"three offerings\" ceremony, and sending off of the spirits— a program of 37 separate ritual components. Each year many visitors from Taiwan and overseas attend, among them research groups studying Confucianism.This year is the centenary of the Republic of China, and to celebrate, bigger things than usual have been planned for the Confucius Ceremony and the Taipei Confucius Temple Cultural Season that is wrapped around it. A series of activities will bring historical sites and heritage vividly to life, and as you are no doubt intent on taking part, you can find more details on the Taipei Confucius Temple Confucian Culture website at www.ct.taipei.gov.tw.Novel and Elegant Creative SouvenirsDo you know what the Confucian \"Six Arts\" are? Do you know what the classical musical instruments of the Confucius Ceremony are? Bringing together modern-era technology and ancientera, the temple management has introduced the Multimedia Six Arts Experience Exhibit, providing an interactive experience that will educate you about the Six Arts, which for a very long time were close to vanishing from the historical scene. Today they are once again being returned to their rightful place as central icons of the Confucianist culture.Work is now going on to change the night face of the temple complex, soon to be completed, and starting in Oct. an enjoyable series of night-time activities is being unveiled, lifting the night-curtain on the complex and bringing a whole new type of visitor experience.The temple now also offers a range of souvenirs as well—and very nice ones indeed. The designers turned to classic Confucian themes: artifacts used in sacrificial rites, classical musical instruments, the Analects, the Four Classics, and other iconic symbols. The souvenirs are 9 everyday-use items, including stationery and clothing/accessories. One is the Liuli Zhong Container; the zhong is an ancient Chinese bronze bell, one of the classic Confucian-ritual musical instruments. The Green Ceramic Ancient Wine Vessel comes in a set of two; this type of wine vessel was popular during the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, and an important ritual item when making a libation to honor Confucius. The vessels here are replicas made of penetrating celadon. You'll no doubt also admire the \"Confucius Says\" Book Bag and Analects Calligraphic Scarf , both of practical everyday use and defining you as a person of distinctive character.Perhaps the stationery souvenir items best capture the scholarly essence of Confucianism's spirit. You'll find this \"essence\" actually printed on paper with the Four Books Memo Pads , which have quotes from Confucius printed on them and are bound in ancient style, giving them a chic retro look. For the Liu Li Tong Tian Concealed Flash Drive, a type of glass is fired in the shape of a tube, imitating the ceramic tubes you see atop Confucian temples, themselves imitations of ceramic tubes once used to protect books. Legend has it that China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang , burned books and buried scholars alive, and these tubes were used to protect and hide the Chinese heritage. The souvenir tubes are worn as a necklace; remove the cap and your flash drive is ready to use.Since when shopping, you'll have already attended the Confucius Ceremony, the Eight Sound Coasters and Five Sheng Bookmarks are also good ideas. The \"eight sounds\" are eight kinds of traditional Chinese instruments distinguished by the different materials used to make them; for the souvenirs, three instruments have been chosen, the ocarina (clay), the xiao (bamboo) and the zhong (metal), and etched onto pliable rubber, using a modern material to reignite the beauty of ancient instruments. The five types of sheng are the five types of performers in the Confucius Ceremony, playing a key role in each part: the musicians perform the drums, the singers sing praise, the dancers and deacons follow the flag leaders into the ceremony. In addition to the five shengs, the entire ceremony is overlooked and orchestrated by the presentation officers.These wonderfully crafted souvenirs can be purchased at two locations: the sales outlet on the first level of Taipei Confucius Temple's Minglun Hall, and at the souvenir shop at Taipei City Hall. If memories can take material form, these are the perfect way to memorialize your Confucius Temple experience. Information Taipei Confucius Temple Add: 275 Dalong St. Tel: (02) 2592-3934 Hours: Tue-Sat 08:30-21:00, Sun and national holidays 08:30-17:00 (closed Mon) Website: http://www.ct.taipei.gov.tw/en-us/Home.htm Transportation: MRT: Danshui Line to Yuanshan Station, take Exit 2, walk approx. 8 minutes Bus: 1. Dalongdong Baoan Temple stop: 2, 41, 215, 246, 288, 669, 811, Red 33 2. Jiuquan St. stop: 2, 9, 41, 215, 288, 669, 811, Red 33 3. Kulun St. stop: 2, 9, 41, 215, 246, 288, 669, 811, Red 33 ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141498", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=A9DD0131C6ED96DC", "title": "Qing Dynasty Taiwan Provincial Administration Hall", "Content": " Plunked down in the Taipei Botanical Garden is theQing Dynasty Taiwan Provincial Administration Hall, the only yamen, or official imperialgovt. office, left in Taiwan. Taiwan was established as aprovince of China in 1885, and among other functions,this served as the treasury handling money matters,military pay, etc.—the Qing government in miniature. Italso served as the residential quarters for central govt.officials on inspection visits to Taiwan. After servingthe Qing, the structure has also been a witness to theJapanese and Republican eras. This building was, in fact, the centerpiece of alarge complex housing the provincial government'sadministrative machinery. Nothing else survives today(it is estimated it represents just 1/32 of the original complex). What remains is the main hall and parts of thetwo wings of the yamen, in good condition, a rare andprecious example of the south Fujian architectural style.After more than two years of renovation work and theaddition of illustrated information boards, multimediafacilities, and scale models, the building was opened tothe public in May. The roof features a single ridge withthe classic south China swallowtail design. The overallarchitectural look is simple and solemn. Inside you canperuse displays that give you a whirlwind tour of Taiwan'spast, on themes such as“History and ArchitecturalFeatures”,“Renovation of theHeritage Site”, and“An ArchaeologicalExploration of Taipei Botanical Garden”. Information The Museum Bu-Cheng-Shih-Sz Yamen (Qing Dynasty Taiwan Provincial Administration Hall) Add: 53 Nanhai Rd. (inside Botanical Garden) Tel: (02) 2303-9978, ext. 1420 Hours: Tue~Sun 09:00~16:30, free entry ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141499", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=603B2B506FD2412E", "title": "URS 127 Design Gallery", "Content": "Taipei's Dihua Street is known for its dense concentration of old-style shophouses selling regional goods, Chinese medicines, and fabrics. It was the first market street to emerge in the Dadaocheng neighborhood. A shophouse is very long and narrow. Goods arriving would be brought in through the back, and sold at the shop in the front. The buildings are lined up in rows in tight formation, their narrow facades quite uniform. Today 77 of the original buildings remain, priceless historical relics all, and comprehensive renovations have just recently been completed at the shophouse located at No. 127, Sec. 1, Dihua Street , which is now open to the public.This site has been christened the URS127 Design Gallery, the first shophouse in the city opened up for public visit. The project took seven years and cost NT$20 million, returning all interior furnishings and the exterior façade to their original appearance. Among other traditional architectural features, you can inspect the exposed timber beams of the roof, traditional well-like courtyard in the middle of the building, which was used to separate the business area from the residential quarters of the owner-family. As part of the renovation project, access from Dihua St. through to Minle St. in behind has also been provided, and the opening made available to local residents for use as a public space for displays, exhibits, and other activities. Information URS127 Design GalleryAdd: 127, Sec. 1, Dihua St. Hours: Tue~Sun 10:00~17:00(closed Mondays and national holidays)", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141497", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=AB18720B3AE5EBE5", "title": "Old Residential Buildings Transformed into Art Spaces", "Content": "A dedicated team of individuals from the world of contemporary art—curators, artists, critics, cultural workers—has come together and pooled time and talent to create the new Taipei Contemporary Art Center. In turn, senior talent among the local world of photographers has come together to create the Taiwan Photography Museum Preparatory Office. The two new cultural pearls were officially opened for public visit in February and March, 2010, respectively. They are both housed in renovated spaces within old four-storey residential buildings located by Taipei Hero House and stretch of Yanping S. Rd. In the past the buildings and the bustling Ximending commercial district, which is one block away, were of sharp contrast. The owner of the facilities, the JUT Foundation for Arts and Architecture , has made these spots available for use as art spaces where artists can gather for the stimulating exchange of ideas. Informal Arts Publication and Propagation SpacesWhen you walk into the Taipei Contemporary Art Center you are met with a striking sight. Before you are three red styrofoam installation pieces big as boulders and a collection of green primary school seats. This is a comfy, stylish café where artists can gather. The other half of the first floor is taken up with open-plan offices open to public visit where information materials on and by Taiwan's artists, curators, and critics are collected. These include commentaries and publications. Anyone researching the contemporary arts in Taiwan is welcome to use the materials. The center offers thorough introduction to the artists. The office is also available as a space for up-and-coming artists to use for introductory interviews and public announcements on their works. The second level provides a space for local and international artists from around the world to give irregular presentations of free-flowing form, designed for interchange and announcement of works. The third and fourth levels together constitute formal exhibition space. Come on over during any afternoon, watch the random interplay of light and shadow inside this charming old apartment building given a new lease on life, and revel in the new air of artistic interplay. Among the various regular activities you can experiment with is the “Youth Artist Salon” held one Sunday each month, the “Friday Bar” held every Friday night, and the “Cultural Policy Forum”. Outpost for the Taiwan Photography MuseumThe other facility making an old residential building its home, the Taiwan Photography Museum Preparatory Office, has been given life by a corps of the senior statesmen of Taiwan photography led by celebrated photographer Zhuang Ling. Taiwan has never had a place for education in photography or a space for discussion among still-image creators, and so Zhuang and friends have first set up the Preparatory Office to promote works by deserving photography talents, for exhibits, for related forums and discussions, and for instruction. There is also a reading room and other facilities provided. The current total space of the facility is limited, but the point in opening the Preparatory Office is to demonstrate the unity and enthusiasm for the project on the part of the nation's photographers. The walls on the first and second levels are covered in photographs of all sizes, more than 200 in all. These include masterpieces generously provided by the elder statesmen of the local photography community. Right since the opening of the vanguard office a steady stream of local and foreign admirers of photographic art have come in, creating a taste for the completed museum down the road. The first formal exhibit being held is entitled “2010 Photography Battle Array”, a collection of superlative images capturing the essence of the authentic local culture and free of any categorization according to school, genre, or professional/amateur.InformationTaipei Contemporary Art CenterHours: Exhibition hours Thurs-Sun 13:00-19:00 (businessaffairs hours Tues-Sat 11:00-19:00, closed Mon); free entryAdd: 160-6, Yanping S. Rd.Tel: (02) 2311-2626 Website: www.tcac.twTaiwan Photography Museum Preparatory OfficeHours: Tues-Sun 11:00-18:00 (closed Mon); free entryAdd: 1F, 17, Lane 91, Sec. 1, Zhonghua Rd. (MRT Xiaonanmen Station)Tel: (02) 2388-9693", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141495", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=30E81189F59AE245", "title": "The US Military's Cold War Housing in Shanzihou and Tianmu", "Content": "In 1950 the US government, seeking to prevent the expansion of communist power in Asia, sent a large contingent of military personnel to Taiwan to assist the country. Extensive living quarters were constructed. Quiet and secluded areas high up on Shanzihou in Yangmingshan and in Tianmu, which were highly secure, became the first sites chosen. These structures, about a half-century old now, are witnesses to an important time of ROC-US amity and cooperation, and are of historical significance, playing a role in the internationalization of local development. The facilities were also source of the first exposure to Americans and American-style living for many local people, and source for many interesting episodes of interaction with the Americans. Agricultural Area Transformed into US Military Housing ComplexThe Yangmingshan Shanzihou US military housing complex was built up during the 1950s, located near Taipei's Yangde Blvd., Chinese Culture University, and Taipei Hwa Kang Arts School. “Shanzihou” means “rear of the mountain.” There are a total of 217 residential structures, making this not only the largest settlement for military dependants in Taiwan but also the most complete US military settlement still in existence today. The presence of military personnel and their families created an exotic atmosphere for local inhabitants in days gone by, providing them with an exposure to the coffee and coke culture and an opportunity to practice English, eat Western foods, and experience Halloween and other traditions. The local rural folk, traditional and frugal, saw quite a change with the material wealth on display with the emergence of an associated commercial area stocked with exotic overseas goods. Different in style from the narrow, cramped residences of early Taiwan, most of the US military-personnel homes are bungalows. The area for each is at least 1,420 sq. ft., and the distance between residences is 10 to 15 meters, following the American custom in towns and villages, giving consideration to light, air flow and to privacy. Yards have an open concept, with no fences cutting things off, creating a neighborly feeling and a kind of commonness for all to use for recreation and play. This community was the first instance of Americanstyle residential-neighborhood planned in Taiwan, demonstrating the concept of bringing people and nature together. Each home creates a sense of cozy back-home familiarity for their American occupants, far from home. Each has a fireplace; the Yangmingshan winters are cool and sometimes quite cold, and besides providing real warmth it also gave residents a warm feeling of nostalgia for their hometowns. In the wood-built single-family homes near Kaixuan Rd., one finds a layer of hollow-brick walls inside and double-sloping roofs. The multi-level high-pitch design of th eroofs gives them a brisk, lively, unique look. The residences by Guanghua Rd. and Lane 61 of Kaixuan Rd. feature, for the most part, outer walls of gray-color washed stone and red brick facing, their colors exuberantly bright set against the surrounding verdant greenery. Turning left off of Yangde Blvd. and walking along Aifu 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Streets, you see clean whitewashed brick and stucco exteriors and grey-tile pitched roofs, with valuable Chinese cypress used as the wood for the roof timber. The facades of hollow brick feature split-groove joints for definition, nicely complementing the wooden casement windows with arched sills. Around Lane 20 of Gezhi Rd. are two-story semi-detached homes featuring blended styling, with brick facing and washed stone, materials familiar in Taiwan, used for decorative embellishment, and with two large chimneys on left and right used in many of the homes, giving them an unusual and attractive cottage-like visage. Residences located in the vicinity of Jianye Rd. , Zhongyong 1st Rd. and 2nd Rd. are, in contrast, constructed with a simple modernistic look, with geometrically symmetrical wall design, level roofs, and cruciform configuration, with abundant natural lighting. Though at close quarters the homes in each area have their own distinctive style, the view from a distance reveals a key emphasis on green living. As the “Shanzihou Culture and History Workshop” points out, Shanzihou has about 60 protected heritage trees, with 40 situated among the military dependants' residences. Most are native Taiwan species, such as banyan, camphorwood, bishopwood, Taiwan acacia, green maple, and other types, their branch reach impressive and their foliage exuberant after these many tens of years of growth, a walk among them bracing and refreshing, the views much the same as if you had somehow suddenly transported yourself to a North American country road. The Tianmu White House, Building a “United Nations Community” During the period of US military assistance, a large number of military personnel and their dependants lived in Tianmu, giving rise to a forest of American-style buildings, restaurants, and shops. Later, with the building of the Taipei American School and Taipei Japanese School, many more overseas citizens were drawn to live in this area. In addition, many countries with which Taiwan had formal diplomatic relations decided to set up their embassies in Tianmu, and personnel also set up homes here. The military folk are now gone, but today Tianmu still brims with an air of international sophistication. Facing Tianmu Park is the Tianmu White House, in place half a century. Built in the 1950s, when US military personnel were stationed in Taiwan, it is located off Sec. 7 of Zhongshan N. Rd. near the Huang creek. It was used as the residence of US military personnel. There was originally a residential complex here, totaling 3600 sq. ft., but with Tianmu's energetic development what is left today is the White House building, with selected elements of its original appearance still intact. It was declared an official city heritage site in 2004. The single-family residence is a Western-style wood and brick structure with a mix of other stylistic elements, the exterior walls clad in clapboard siding, the roof clad in black Taiwan-style molded-cement roof tiles, a type of European-style chimney rarely seen, and exposed stone wall niches. The interior has numerous fireplaces, and outside is a courtyard garden brimming with luxuriant greenery. The scene is a classic one from an American suburb, in a spot far from the American suburbs. The Tianmu White House was not just witness to the story of US military assistance to Taiwan; it played a key role in Tianmu's pluralistic development as a “United Nations community”. In the eyes of many of Tianmu's older generation, this is a physical record of their exposure to “the American life” in their youth. In those days shop signboards had Chinese and English side by side, and exotic imported American goods flowed into and out of shops in abundance. There were even American-style variety stores, American-style bars, and much else that was new and exotic and thrilling, with little left now of those wonderful scenes save the irreplaceable witnesses to history we speak of here. Ownership of the Tianmu White House is now in the hands of Bank of Taiwan, which turned over management responsibilities to the city's Dept. of Cultural Affairs in 2008. Following a thorough renovation in May, 2010, the lovely site has been presented to the public as a new local attraction for cultural activities.With the passage of time historical memories fade, slowly becoming indistinct. But the Yangmingshan Shanzihou US military housing complex and the Tianmu White House stand firmly proud and tall still yet, half a century after their birth, welcoming visitors and serving as clear records of a vibrant era in Taiwan's compelling history, evidence of a community existence that was unique and is now gone. InformationYangmingshan Shanzihou US Military Housing ComplexLocation: In area of Yangde Blvd., Chinese Culture Transportation:At MRT Jiantan Station, transfer to bus Red No. 5, Small 15, or 303, or catch bus No. 260 at Zhongshan N. Rd. and Zhongzheng Rd. On holidays take the Holiday Bus No. 109, 110, or 111.Tianmu White HouseAdd: 23, Lane 181, Sec. 7, Zhongshan N. Rd. (facing Tianmu Park)Transportation:MRT Shipai Station, then transfer to bus No. 220.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141494", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=5851FE5818AD04BD", "title": "The Grand Hotel: Taipei's Chinese Palace-style Iconic Landmark", "Content": "When in Taipei exploring this city's charms, anytime you approach the Shilin District, the imposing Grand Hotel looms into view, perched atop the low, rounded Yuanshan. Its Chinese name translates literally as “Round Mountain Grand Hotel,” and this magnificent architectural expression most certainly is grandiose. It is one of Taipei's landmarks, and was rated one of the world's top ten hotels by Fortune magazine in 1968. Those who stayed here—a steady stream of high-level politicians, business executives, professionals and artists—understand the moment they step in that they would be enjoying one of the world's greatest hotel experiences. The hotel prides itself on courteous service in the classical Chinese style, and guests will surely be awed by the palace-style Chinese architecture.The hotel's main building, soaring 14 stories, was opened in 1973. The site on which the complex is built was formerly the site of the Taiwan Shinto Shrine, built by the Japanese during the colonial period (1895-1945). Since imperial times, it has been believed by feng-shui masters that a “dragon tail cave” had emerged here. You'll find an amazing 200,000 dragon-shaped carvings on site, leading to the attractive unofficial name “dragon palace.” Classical architectural rules have been followed, with intricate brackets atop great columns helping to support majestic flying eaves. The fine paintings and reliefs was all done by accomplished masters.Banquet/dining facilities are in the front half of the building, and guest rooms are toward the back. Room furnishings are a veritable chronicle of many Chinese imperial epochs stretching back into antiquity, and each of the eight floors dedicated as guest rooms highlights different dynasties' traditional folk art. Paintings and other two-dimensional artworks are all replicas of the priceless works housed in the nearby National Palace Museum. Fabrics you'll see in your room—beds, wall hangings, sofa slipcovers, and so on—have been meticulously chosen for authentic historical reference.The most prestigious/luxurious room is the Presidential Suite, which contains the writing desk once used by Chiang Kai-shek and the make-up table used by his wife, Madame Chiang, who was the prime mover behind the Grand Hotel project, feeling Taipei needed an international-caliber hotel to host important visitors. On the wall is a superb landscape painting in classical splash-ink style by celebrated master Zhang Da-qian. Many international celebrities used to stay in this suite when visiting Taiwan. Refined classical elegance such as this infuses the entire hotel; each way you turn, you'll see images of exquisite beauty.The interior design is made up of intricately carved marble columns and balustrades, bonsais and unusual stones, along with Ming Dynasty red-lacquer furniture pieces, a display of excellent Chinese craftsmanship. The imposing protective stone lions that stand in the concourse garden on the first level were donated to the Shinto shrine by the powerful Lin clan of Banqiao. Their former residential complex, Lin Family Garden, is now open for visit. The protective stone gods standing near the monumental archway is adorned with the famed calligraphy of master Yu You-ren, with the vigorous characters reading “Jiantan historical site.” Look closely at the doors of the main entrance and you'll see that on the darkened, stately floor-to-ceiling glass doors, it is lightly etched with the almost imperceptible characters “Long live the Republic of China.” Inside, the Golden Dragon Hall really does have intricate golden dragons; look closely and you'll notice that they are three-clawed, not the four or fiveclaw style normally seen. In the imperial days, the fiveclaw auspicious beast was a symbol of the emperor, the three-claw version reserved for commoners. In the great high-ceilinged lobby, look up to see the large plafond in plum-blossom shape, embellished with meticulously rendered dragon and phoenix; the dragon and phoenix appear as harbingers of national prosperity, and the plum flower is a traditional symbol of resilience and also the national flower of the ROC. Another delight for your aesthetic sensibilities is the magnificent wall mural in copper on the grand staircase, depicting the times of the Duke of Zhou, supposedly a scene from 1,110 BC, showing Zhou's famed drafting of timeless Chinese ritual and music systems. The premieres of the famous Chinese movies “Hero” and “Red Cliff” both took place here.InformationGrand HotelTel: (02) 2886-8888Add: 1, Sec. 4, Zhongshan N. Rd. Website: http://www.grand-hotel.org/en/Complementing the classic look and feel, the Grand Hotel is a place of the most modern service amenities. The gift shop brims with replica antiques and other upscale items. There is also a full range of recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, and fitness center. Not only would the Chinese kitchen easily please the emperor and his court, the Western chefs are also top-calibre, along with banquet facilities that can handle gatherings large and small. Be sure to try the classic soft red-bean cakes at Yuan Yuan restaurant, the silky outer layer made of glutinous rice, the filling red-bean paste sweet and fragrant. This was Madame Chiang's favorite snack. Yuan Yuan restaurant specializes in north China delicacies. Sophisticated palates also often come here specially for the taro paste with rock sugar, “eight treasures” rice pudding, and “emerald jade” steamed open dumplings. Each afternoon from 14:00 till 17:00, the grand lobby resounds with the elegant sounds of live traditional Chinese music.Sitting high up on its mountain perch, you can take in almost the whole of bustling Taipei before you spread out across the Taipei Basin. You feel the seclusion of being in a separated green oasis in the hills, yet a ride to the city center takes less than 15 minutes. Whenever you pass by on your way to and fro, take a moment and look up to this architectural masterpiece braced against an immovable mountain backdrop—for this, the Grand Hotel, is one of this island's most important, and most beautiful, historical landmarks.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141491", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=F976FFD55B055687", "title": "A Day in the World of Dadaocheng's Century-Old Graces", "Content": "Dadaocheng is a place of many charms and myriad fascinations. A shopping emporium with wonderful Dihua St. as its lifespring, shoppers and thrill-seekers have been coming here well over a hundred years to satisfy both whim and need. Come in the short lead-up to Lunar New Year and you'll be deeply impressed by the fantastic press of buyers and sightseers revelling at the vast cornucopia of all things traditional that are needed to celebrate the arrival of the new spring and new beginnings.Dadaocheng was at one time Taipei's main port and commercial center. The portside foreign-run factories stood like a small forest, making this one of the earliest loci for contact with Western culture in the Taipei Basin. The result was that Dadocheng locals became adept at communicating with these travelers from far-distant lands, exhibiting a zeal for commerce. Today the traces of the Taipei of old linger throughout the community—in the heritage architecture, in the traditional folk customs, in the fabric shops, in the Chinese-medicine shops, in the old-style fine foods and snacks, and in much else. Here we set out two routes for neighborhood day-tours for you. Choose the one that best suits your likes (or choose both and come again a second day). Both allow for slow savouring of the Dadaocheng's many century-old graces. Try to visit on a non-holiday to allow yourself greatest room for leisurely strolling through a place that enjoys living just a little bit in the past, by choosing the best of that past to live on. Historical Architecture and Fine Foods TourItinerary:Admire historical architecture on Dihua St.→Buy hand-made pastries at Li Ting-xiang Cake Shop→Eat traditional snack foods at Yi Mian Wang→Enjoy heritage architecture at Koo Family Salt Hall→Eat traditional steamed buns with meat filling at Miaokou Roubao→Admire historical architecture at old Chen Tian-lai Residence→Admire historical architecture at Li Chun-sheng Memorial Church→Soak in the sunset at Dadaocheng Wharf Each and every building on old shophouse-lined Dihua St., it seems, stores a treasure-vault of stories. It is suggested that when traveling this tour route, you start at the north end of Dihua St. by the Taipei Bridge and move south. As you walk along, historical relics slide by, old shophouses shoulder to shoulder, no space in between, each narrow-fronted and running far to the rear. The roofs are in the classic Chinese minnan (Fujian south) style, slanted and covered in ceramic tile. There are fine-looking two-story Western colonial-style buildings as well. These are decorated with expressive gables and parapets, and also sport attractive flower and plant images on the facade and capitals. These exuberant Baroque embellishments at first startle the onlooker because they are found in a non-Western cultural environment, but soon blend seamlessly into the local manmade habitat. To protect its original, authentic appearance, the city government has moved to protect, restore, and rejuvenate Dihua St., using incentives and subsidies to encourage renovation, encouraging area inhabitants to preserve the architectural integrity of their heritage properties. The result has been a renaissance and creation of another beauty in the city's expanding strong of neighborhood pearls.As you move along Dihua St., you may well smell the Li Ting-xiang Cake Shop before you see it. All the many cakes and pastries here are hand-crafted in the traditional way. Each is stamped with an auspicious symbol inviting peace and prosperity; buying these as gifts for friends will be something exotic and novel. A little further along the street, turn left down old Guisui St. to visit Yi Mian Wang, which means “Yi Noodles King”; Yi noodles are egg/wheat noodles that are fried. In an earlier guise, the shop here sold peanut soup, but it was later switched to the new food treat and a new name that brought the location widespread renown. Take time to munch down some genuine old-time Yi noodles and delicious standard complementary side-dish foods, topped off with a serving of shaved ice with sweet toppings.Continue walking east along Guisui St. and then head down Lane 309 to find the stately Koo Family Salt Hall standing before you. Today housing a preschool, yesterday it was home to the powerful Koo family (still powerful today), the extravagant exterior with its bold mix of Western and Min (Fujianese) architectural elements clearly demonstrating the family' s lofty position in Dadaocheng society.Time now to head back to Dihua St. At the corner of Dihua St. and Minsheng W. Rd., you'll see the Miaokou Roubao stand, no doubt with a lineup before it. Roubao are traditional-style steamed buns with juicy minced meat inside, and the roubao here are extra juicy and extra savory, a fact that has brought this little snack vendor a big reputation. Continuing south, enter Guide St. Here you'll come across the old Chen Tian-lai Residence, Li Chun-sheng Memorial Church, and the solid block of old-style shops on what was once called Qianqiu Jie or “Thousand Autumns Street.” The classically ornate Baroque-style buildings here make it easy to imagine this spot in its heyday, lined with foreign owned factories, goods coming and going in stupendous quantity to and from distant lands.You are now by Danshui River and the Dadaocheng Wharf. This was for some time Taipei's water window to the world. By the wharf, you'll see a large, colorful mockup of the type of Junk ship used by the commercial concerns of old to transport goods to/from the bigger ships lying downriver at the seaport of Danshui. The long, meandering riverside bike path streams by, and many riders converge here toward twilight to take in the lovely sunset over the Danshui. This is a fine time to imagine the sailing craft mooring for the night a century ago in an exotic world now just memory, and a fine way to end your day touring proud old Dadaocheng, you'll surely agree.InformationHistorical Architecture and Fine Foods TourKoo Family Salt Hall Add: No. 9, Lane 303, Guisui St. Chen Tian-lai Residence Add: No. 73, Guide St. Li Chun-sheng Memorial Church Add: No. 44, Guide St. Tea-Refining History and Traditional GoodsShopping TourYongle Fabric Market Add: 2 & 3F, No. 21, Sec. 1, Dihua St.Xiahai City God Temple Add: No. 61, Sec. 1, Dihua St. Lin Liu-Hsin Puppet Theatre MuseumTel: (02) 2556-8909Add: No. 79, Xining N. Rd.Website: http://www.taipeipuppet.com/english/index-menu.html", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141492", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=8CB232792F6E7D8C", "title": "A Look of the Old City<br>A Tour of Dadaocheng Heritage Architecture", "Content": "The Taipei neighborhood of Dadaocheng has quite a past. Located on the city's west side by the Tamsui River, this riverport area was a rich commercial enclave in the early years of Taipei. Today, it remains rich in evidence of these glorious boom times, in the form of resplendent heritage buildings in Chinese and Western styles, left behind by Chinese merchants, intellectuals, and artists, along with Western merchants. Dadaocheng is a museum of living history, a fascinating destination for overseas travelers to get a glimpse of the soul of this metropolis.A Centennial Pedigree for Wang TeaThe Wang Tea tea-factory building is a Dadaocheng architectural landmark that has now surpassed the hundred-year milestone. The firm's forerunner was Wang Teahouse in the city of Xiamen, across the Taiwan Strait in China, which moved the shop to Taiwan in 1907. At that time, Dadaocheng was a key location in the tea trade, and Wang Tea Enterprise Co. was opened as a tea-refining operation for north Taiwan Baozhong tea that was then exported to Thailand. The simple red-brick structure, constructed in the Minnan style -“Minnan” means “Fujian South,” from whence the ancestors of most Taiwanese came - has been through many a transformation since, and today the tea factory features a shopfront façade that leads you into a space dedicated to traditional tea refining, with a cultured quarter set aside for the learning of the tea-drinking arts. The house's mission is to bring knowledge and appreciation of refining techniques and tea-appreciation skills to a wider audience.The first floor, where traditional-style tea processing was practiced, is a treasure vault of the machinery and implements of the old days. On the second floor, the space that was used for the hand-sorting of leaves, a painstaking task performed primarily by young females, is today a space of arts and culture activities. On Saturdays, come on over to enjoy traditional-style nanguan music here, a style traced back to old Fujian, played on traditional-style instruments. Wang Lian-yuan, a member of the fifth generation of the Wang Tea founding family, is devoted to promotion of the tea arts and spreading knowledge of their cultural history, ensuring the Wang Tea complex of today is as filled with life and vigor as the busy tea facility of yesteryear.Li Chun-sheng Memorial ChurchAt the head of Guide St. is a collection of fine old teashops. As you move along, next coming into view is the striking Li Chun-sheng Memorial Church. Back in the late Qing Dynasty, this was a post-office branch. Today, the building's name commemorates the “father of Taiwan tea”. The two-story redbrick structure was done in Baroque styling that evokes an air of classical elegance. The original oeil-de-boeuf (bull's eye) windows are still in place, looking out placidly over an ever-changing Dadaocheng.Li Chun-sheng's father was a Christian, and young Li followed in his footsteps. Gifted in both written and spoken English, he worked for British merchants, interested in their international trade and the buying/selling of tea. In 1869, he went into business as a partner with an Englishman, sending a cargo of local tea to New York by sail, thus opening up the Taiwan tea trade, which would flourish for decades thereafter. The Li Chunsheng Memorial Church was inaugurated in 1937; it is opened to the public for Sunday services, but closed at all other times.Dadaocheng ChurchThe Li Chun-sheng Memorial Church and the Dadaocheng Church have a special kinship. The latter, which was designated an official city heritage site in 2002, was built in 1915 on the land donated by Li, christened the Dadaocheng Presbyterian Church.Before the church was constructed, Li traveled to visit Western missionaries in Xiamen to inspect the church architecture there. When he returned, he personally supervised the work. The building is constructed of ganged red brick. The façade soars with the use of Western-style gables and studs, adorned with terrazzo decorative embellishments in both Western and Chinese motifs. The solemn and sedate facility is a premier example of the original architectural styling that emerged in Taiwan in the early modern era. After nearly five years of expansion and renovation work, the church was proudly reopened for public visits in May, 2009. The church is opened to the public for Sunday services, but closed at all other times. However, the facility will be made available to the general public for wedding ceremonies and visits with advance reservation. Application forms for them can be obtained from the church.Koo Family Salt HallThe fortunes of Taiwan's powerful Koo family arose during the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945), as a result of actions taken by renowned business figure Koo Xian-rong. The grand family residence, built in Dadaocheng in 1910, served as both residence and office. Koo's son, the famed business and political figure Koo Zhen-fu, was granted a monopoly on the island's salt sales by the Japanese, and the residence came to be called the Salt Hall.The mansion's appearance is sumptuous and palatial, giving today's onlookers a clear look into the style and taste of yesteryear's elite. Facing Dadaocheng Wharf, what is today formally called the Koo Family Salt Hall is a fine example of late Renaissance style, sporting an attractive facade of ivory-colored tile. According to the head of the preschool that is now in charge of the building, Taiwan's first private children's choir was established here just after WWII. The splendid facility is not open for public visits, but contemplation while standing aside will make clear just how glorious the mercantile prosperity of this thriving community was.The Baroque Beauties of Guide StreetThe riverport around which Dadaocheng developed was key to the rise of today's metropolis. In the port's heyday, today's Guide St. was referred to as “yanglou jie” or the “street of Western mansions.” Just half a kilometer long and 4 meters wide, Guide St. nevertheless harbors an illustrious past.InformationLi Chun-sheng Memorial ChurchAdd: No. 44, Guide St.Dadaocheng Church Tel: (02) 2553-9741Add: No. 40, Ganzhou St.Koo Family Salt Hall Add: No. 9, Lane 303, Guisui St.Chen Tian-lai Residence（Jinji Tea Co.）Add: No. 73, Guide St.Transportation:Public Bus: Take No. 206, 274, 601 to the stop at thecorner of Yanping N. Rd. and Nanjing W. Rd.MRT: A short walk from Shuanglian Station on theTamsui LineGovernment institutions and the residences of wealthy merchants were clustered here at the end of the Qing Dynasty. With each step, awestruck locals saw buildings of a style rarely if ever seen before; the extravagant Western architectural models included the telegraph academy, telecommunications office, police precinct headquarters, the large-scale factories of Western trading firms, the consulates of numerous faraway lands, the residence of Li Chun-sheng, and on and on. The sharp-eyed visitor of today will notice how high off the ground the buildings' foundations are; this offered protection from flooding by the moody Tamsui River, of which the shore was much closer during those times. Today, many, if not most, of the grand old edifices are gone, but those left speak well of a period of unbounded energy and confidence. One splendid example is the old Chen Tian-lai Residence, built in 1920. Chen was a successful tea merchant, founder of the Jinji Tea Co. His home, now a city heritage site, was modeled on the European/Chinese architectural fusion that was born in Xiamen, extremely popular amongst Chinese merchants successful in international trade in the colonial days. In the looks of these proud old edifices, the features of the past still survive. They are now playing a role in the emergence of a brand-new era and new styles in creativity. On a visit to and through Dadaocheng, you'll see how tradition quietly lives on in a place enjoying an ongoing dialog between history and modernity.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141486", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=293712C61CC98612", "title": "Taipei’s Most Exquisite Dance Locale<br>Rose Monument<br>Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute", "Content": "The “Rose Monument”--what a lovely, elegant name. Its origins lie with Taiwan dance pioneer Tsai Jui-yueh, who in 1953 composed the classic dance study “The Prison and the Rose” after serving time as a political prisoner on the infamous Green Island. The masterful composition has been eulogized ever since. The Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute is where modern dance took root and flourished in Taiwan. In 1999 the Taipei City Government made it the first dancer related venue in Taiwan to be declared a heritage site.Unfortunately, in this same year the institute suffered severe damage due to a raging fire. In 2003 rebuilding began, and the formal name Rose Monument — Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute was adopted. Plans were mapped out to provide a gathering space for artists of all stripes, and the Last Waltz Cafe was the first multifunctional cafe in Taipei specifically designed to accommodate performing arts. The doors to the complex were once again open to all, appropriately enough, on Mother’s day 2007. The name of the cafe officially changed to Dance Cafe, to clearly signify that here you will be relaxing in the very cradle of modern Taiwan dance. The chairwoman of the Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute Foundation, Xiao Wo-ting , says that there is no other exquisitely beautiful place to watch dance performances: “Each time I see the audience spread out on the lawns to watch, dancers absorbed in their acrobatics, light streaming in and gentle breezes wafting from afternoon through dusk, birds flitting about and singing along, I am overwhelmed with the feeling there cannot be a more heavenly place to enjoy the beauty of dance!” She also mentions that it seems word has gotten out amongst the foreign community about the loveliness there, and foreign guests are often on-site, cameras snapping away merrily. The facility is located smack in the center of the metropolis, on Sec 2, Zhongshan North Road, surrounded by the Financial Holding Buildings. Xiao says it is like an oasis hidden away from the serpentine lines of vehicles in front and the towering walls of steel and glass on all other sides, capturing the memories of the architecture built by the Japanese in the colonial Taiwan of the 1920s. There is little surprise that young mothers of Japanese nationality come to this cool oasis in the afternoons with their young ones to relax and play. When activities are scheduled the bubble-making machines mounted on the enclosure walls send forth a brilliant cascade of rainbow-colored floating balls, delighting kids...and the kids at heart too. The Rose Monument — Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute currently offers such dance classes as children’s aerobics, adult ballet, and jazz, among others. The price of each program runs from NT$3,000 to NT$4,000. All members of the public are welcome. In addition, to commemorate Tsai Jui-yueh, since 2006 the annual Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute Dance festival has been held, with special performances given by renowned dance masters from Australia, Japan, the US, and other lands. ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141487", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=016128B470AD5A61", "title": "Taipei Fine Arts Museum<br>The Many Splendors of Weekend Evenings", "Content": "On busy Zhongshan Road, one of Taipei’s key north-south arteries, stands the proud Taipei Fine Arts Museum, its architectural design itself an artistic showcase, standing amid splendid landscaped grounds. The three-floor structure is strikingly presented through the form of cantilevered suspended corridors, from a bird’s-eye view taking the form of the Chinese character, meaning “well.” The traditional Chinese architectural element of piled brackets atop columns supporting crossbeams has been used in the structure. The symbolic nature of this design suggests the fine-arts museum as a wellspring of flowing cultural waters. On all sides, walls have floor-to-ceiling glass to permit maximum natural light. The central courtyard is awash in natural lighting, with light and shadows stretching across the courtyard as the sun moves. The effect is to showcase the vivid effects of natural coloration. Night time, on the other hand, is a favorite time for photography buffs, who vie for the best shooting set-up spots. The striking special lighting provides riveting perspectives of the modernistic facility. The brilliant white exterior is wonderfully set off by the blues, greens, reds, and yellows of the night-sky spotlighting, the building itself becoming a magnificent artistic masterpiece.Since October 2005 the curators have provided a special treat to the public, extending the museum’s hours for visitors each Saturday night from 5:30 pm to 8:30pm, with no admission charged. An attractive array of extra events has been put on to give the public new, alternative choices in artistic recreation: exhibits, hands-on artistic production, films, music and dance shows, and more. Each Saturday at 7 pm a special “Music Night Banquet” is put on in the below-ground central courtyard, to give the public an aural/visual sensory-enjoyment duo, presenting musical performances featuring the saxophone, flute, string instruments, and sometimes full jazz ensembles. Beyond its exhibits and musical shows, Saturday Night Movie Programs provide another unique form of fun and learning for visitors, with a special movie showing at the end of each month. There is a warm sense of relaxed community that flows through the museum on these evenings, and you’ll be doing yourself a favor by dropping by the “neighbourhood” on one of these nights.InformationTaipei Fine Arts MuseumAddress: 181, Sec. 3, Zhongshan N. Rd.Tel: (02) 2595-7656Hours: Tues~Sun 9:30am to 5:30 pm, closed on MondaysNight time hours: Saturday 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm (free)", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "4141489", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=6075B9AE2599C638&s=87D02F060782D6FE", "title": "The National Palace Museum's Silk Palace", "Content": "The National Palace Museum (NPM) is not just a repository of the greatest art of the Chinese people, and not just a world-renowned cultural facility. It is an important historical site in its own architectural right. In order to bring together international business travelers and the best in fine dining, visitors who have sated themselves on the rich banquet of cultural relics within are invited to sate themselves on the riches of the grand culinary tradition of the Chinese people. The attractive, majestic Silk Palace food and beverage facility is an NPM BOT enterprise; in 2004 the National Palace Museum Grand Formosa Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Formosa International Hotels Group, took on the task of building and operating the Silk Palace. After two-and-a-half years and an investment of NT$400 million, the palace was completed. The Silk Palace opens its doors to the world in June, 2008. Situated on the west side of the museum’s main exhibition building, it houses two basement levels and three levels above ground. At its core is a fine-dining area of international caliber, totalling 1,455 ping (1 ping = 36 sq. ft.) in size. The exterior design is the exquisite work of celebrated Taiwan architectural master Yao Ren-xi , who has respected the physical environment in which the complex lives and paid homage to the defining character and traditions behind the priceless cultural masterpieces on display in the museum. Great curtains of glass have been incorporated into the four walls to maximize the feeling of grand expanse and breadth of vision. The interior has been the beneficiary of the talents of the recognized interior-design, Hashimoto Yukio. In the grand lobby vestibule, the screens between dining tables, and on the walls the visitor can revel in the visual images evoking the cracked-ice effect of Song Dynasty era celadon ware. In addition, the ritual vessels and musical instruments used in ancient sacrificial rites are alluringly and imaginatively used here to both decorate columns and act as lamps and lanterns. The greatest paintings from the museum's superb collection are melded into the dining experience either via collages or in grand wall murals, adding that much more sophistication to the upscale experience.The Silk Palace has a capacity of 1,200 diners. Your dining experience can range from just NT$50 to a sumptuous NT$5,000. Beyond the central kitchen on the first basement level, each floor offers a distinctive culinary experience and a distinctive theme. On the second basement-level concourse you can explore the world of traditional Taiwanese food and drink. On the first and second above-ground levels classic Chinese dishes can be enjoyed, the concentration on fine Cantonese fare but with many selections from the other famous Chinese Eight Cuisines. The second floor has a distinctive design theme featuring private rooms, and the third features a multifunctional banquet hall that can be readily reconfigured, and specially selects the cream of Chinese culinary treasures for your refined delectation in a formal banquet setting.InformationSilk Palace, National Palace MuseumTel: (02) 2882-9393Address: 221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Rd., Shilin DistrictHours: 11:30 am-2:00 pm, 5:00 pm-9:30 pmFrom the gastronomic themes to the clever themes chosen for all dining ware, all are a complementary synthesis with the museum's cultural relics, wonderfully delivering the unmatched historical culture of the Chinese culinary arts to your palate for tasteful enlightenment. What better dining experience might one give oneself than gazing upon the National Palace Museum on the one hand, recognized as one of the world's five greatest museums, and gazing out over the invigorating green mountain vistas of the Waishuangxi environment? This facility, designed by grand masters and sitting amongst grand natural and manmade masterpieces, is simply the newest addition to a vast treasure vault of dining locales that has made Taipei perhaps the greatest destination on the planet for culinary travel. Establishing a new fashion trend, it is Taipei’s first international-caliber dining facility in a tourist cultural site.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government" } ]