Taipei - Shilin - Chiang Kai Chek President Residence

The legendary Chiang Kai Chek, who led China to successfully defend against Japan's invasion during the World War II, spend his last years in Taiwan after he and Kuomintan, the ruling party, lost the entire mainland China to the Communist party after the 4 year Civil War that came right after World War II. Most of you who are familiar with Taipei probably have visited Chiang Kai Chek's Memorial Hall. However, besides the gorgeous memorial hall, there's another landmark that you shouldn't miss - the Shilin President Residence.

History
Sitting in the upscale neighborhood of Shilin, Taipei, the president residence is the home for Chiang Kai Chek from 1950 till 1975 when Chiang died in the residence. It was originally the Botanical Lab established in 1908. In 1964, US Vice President Richard Nixon, who later became the host of White House in 1969, stayed in the residence on his visit to Taiwan. The residence remained closed to the public until 1996 when Taipei's mayor Chen Sui Bian, who is now the president of Taiwan, decided to seize the property to open to the public.



Botanical Garden
Because it was originally designed as a botanical lab, Shilin President Residence actually looks more like a botanical garden. A perfect time to visit the president residence would be from March to May when roses in the Rose Garden, Madame Chiang's favorite garden, have reached full blossom. Nevertheless any sunny afternoon is perfact time to visit all the vivid gardens. You would be able to find various sculpture masterpiece in the Western Garden. In addition, visit Oriental Garden to enjoy an authentic Chinese style backyard.



Hour and Location
Shilin President Residence (Shilin Guan-Ti in Mandarin) is at 60 Fulin Rd., Shilin District, Taipei. You could reach the residene via red line MRT and get off at either Shilin or Chientan plus a few minutes walk. The opening hours are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday and 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Weekend or Holiday. There are 4 daily guided tour at 9:30, 10:30, 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Please allow 2 hour minimum to visit the whole residence. You may get food and beverages at the Snack Bar. Call (02)2881-2512 for more details.