Taipei Travel

When the term "guest house" is used, many Western visitors assume it's a slightly down-at-heal residential hotel at the sea-side. Nothing could be further than the truth. The Taipei Guest House dates from the Japanese colonial era; it's a magnificent structure; it's used to house visiting VIPs and host civic receptions. I have been invited to attend several receptions at the Taipei Guest House, most recently to be introduced to Tsai Ing-wen, president of the Republic of China. It's certainly a prime example of Taiwanese craftsmanship of which the people of the island are rightly proud .

The Taipei Guest House dates from the Japanese colonial era (1895-1945). It is similar in style to the Presidental Offices, which are not far away. It is used for receptions hosted by the govenment. It is called a "guest house" because visiting VIPs stay there. It is not a hotel.

The Taipei Guest House was built during the Japanese colonial era. It is a very impressive building. The Taipei Guest House is mainly used for official functions, often by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) which is just down the road. If you have chance, take a look -- it is not open often. I was a guest at an official reception, the interior is striking. Despite the name, it is not a hotel.

Hidden behind a large wall and many trees, this mansion was constructed between 1899-1900, and was originally the house of the Governor-General of Taiwan during the Japanese Period. A gracious Baroque residence, today it is owned by the government of the Republic of China, and is used for receiving state guests. Unfortunately, one can barely see the outside, and you can only visit this impressive structure on the first Saturday of each month. Such a shame.

The Taipei Guest House is one of the few European-style buildings in the Taipei. Historically is housed the Japanese governors during their rule, but not is is just one of the official buildings for foreign leaders.