Presidential Office Building Taipei
A stunning Baroque-style building completed in 1919, once the seat of Japanese colonial rule and now the President's office.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Limited access, plan ahead!
Presidential Office Building Taipei
Best Time
Limited access, plan ahead!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Baroque-style building completed in 1919, once the seat of Japanese colonial rule and now the President's office.
"Spectacular and unique architecture, a must-see for history and sight-seeing enthusiasts."
📅 Check Public Visiting Days
Access is limited; confirm official public visiting days online before your trip.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with Taipei 101 or Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall for a fuller day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Architecture
Exterior
A magnificent example of Baroque-style architecture, a testament to its Japanese colonial past.
Historical Significance
Interior and Exterior
Explore the building's rich history as the former Japanese Governor-General's office.
Nighttime Ambiance
Exterior
The building is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a serene and picturesque view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Understanding the Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Public Visiting Days
Access is limited; confirm official public visiting days online before your trip.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with Taipei 101 or Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall for a fuller day.
💡 Consider a Guided Tour
Knowledgeable guides offer historical insights and make the visit more educational.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's facade is stunning; allow time for photography, especially at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Public Visiting Days
Access is limited; confirm official public visiting days online before your trip.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with Taipei 101 or Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall for a fuller day.
💡 Consider a Guided Tour
Knowledgeable guides offer historical insights and make the visit more educational.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's facade is stunning; allow time for photography, especially at night.
💰 Free Entrance
Admission is free, making it a great budget-friendly historical attraction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Presidential Office Building for its magnificent Baroque architecture and historical significance, offering an educational experience with free entry. While the interior tours provide valuable insights, some find the exhibitions primarily in Chinese and the overall experience limited after photo opportunities. The building is particularly stunning when viewed at night.
"It's one of the best places for historical, scenic attractions to visit, I recommend coming here if you are near. Knowing the history of it and seeing the architecture and facade of the building makes sight seeing more educational. Although, after some photo op there is not much to do since it is a government building that is operational."
Anjo
"Free entrance but all the exhibition is in Chinese and English. The rooms will be opened for public depend on availability"
nuinsrnui
"Am planning to visit inside, especially after driving past tonight and seeing how spectacular and unique the architecture is for Taiwan. See photo."
Fab C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Presidential Office Building is accessible via MRT. Take the Red Line to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station (Exit 5) or the Green Line to NTU Hospital Station (Exit 1). Both stations are a short walk away. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking can be challenging in this central area. It's generally recommended to use public transportation like the MRT to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from places like Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall or Taipei 101, offering a chance to see more of the city.
On National Day, public transportation is recommended. Avoid highway buses due to potential traffic jams; opt for the MRT or train for more reliable travel.
Yes, MRT services generally run until around midnight, making it convenient for evening visits to see the illuminated building. Check specific MRT line schedules for exact times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Presidential Office Building is free. This makes it an accessible historical site for all visitors.
The building is typically open to the public only once a month. It's crucial to check the official website for the exact dates and times of public access.
When open to the public, visiting hours are usually during the day. Specific times vary, so always confirm with the official schedule. Evening visits are for viewing the exterior.
Holiday access can vary. While some holidays might coincide with public visiting days, it's best to verify the schedule in advance, especially around national holidays.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's advisable to dress respectfully as it is a government building. Avoid overly casual attire.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Photography is generally allowed in designated areas, but restrictions may apply in certain exhibition rooms or sensitive zones. Always follow signage and guide instructions.
Inside, you can explore historical exhibition rooms that showcase the building's past and Taiwan's political history. The rooms opened to the public depend on availability.
The exhibitions are primarily in Chinese, with some English translations available. Guides often provide explanations in English.
Plan for at least two hours. This allows time for a guided tour (about an hour) and further exploration of the architecture and grounds afterward.
Absolutely! Admission is free, and the historical and architectural significance makes it a valuable experience even without an entry fee.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The building is a prime example of Baroque-style architecture, a design influence from the Japanese colonial era.
It was completed in 1919 during the Japanese rule of Taiwan, serving as the office of the Governor-General.
Originally, it served as the administrative center for the Japanese Governor-General of Taiwan.
Yes, it's a significant historical landmark, representing a key period in Taiwan's past and its transition through different governance eras.
Yes, the building is beautifully illuminated at night and is a popular spot for evening strolls and photography due to its serene ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, it's best to focus on the impressive exterior architecture and the historical context. The surrounding areas, like the walk towards Taipei 101, can be more exciting for kids. Remember to check public visiting days in advance, as access is limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you choose to go inside on a public visiting day, the experience remains free. The guided tours, if available and suitable, also come at no extra cost. This makes it a fantastic way to soak in history and culture without impacting your travel budget. Combine it with affordable MRT travel and street food for a cost-effective day.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the building at night. When illuminated, it transforms into a magical sight, casting a warm glow that is perfect for atmospheric shots. The surrounding area is often quiet in the evenings, allowing for unobstructed views and creative compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Blend of Eras
While the exterior is the main draw for many, the interior also holds historical significance. When open to the public, visitors can explore rooms that once housed key administrative functions. The architecture inside often complements the exterior, with elegant layouts and historical furnishings. It's a place where you can truly feel the weight of history and appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
For those interested in photography, the building offers numerous angles and details to capture. The symmetry, the columns, and the overall presence of the structure make it a popular subject. Even if you can't go inside, seeing it illuminated at night provides a completely different, yet equally captivating, perspective.
Navigating Public Access and Tours
When you do visit, consider taking advantage of the guided tours. These tours are often led by knowledgeable volunteers who can provide deep insights into the building's history, its former occupants, and its significance in Taiwan's political landscape. While the main exhibitions are in Chinese, English explanations are usually available through guides or supplementary materials, making the experience educational for international visitors.
Allow ample time for your visit. Beyond the tour itself, which typically lasts about an hour, you'll want time to wander around the grounds, admire the architecture from different vantage points, and perhaps take some memorable photos. The combination of historical learning and architectural appreciation makes it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Beyond the Building: Nearby Attractions
Another nearby point of interest is the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall. This memorial offers a different perspective on Taiwanese history and culture, and the walk between these sites provides a good feel for the city's urban landscape. For those who enjoy browsing, the Eslite Bookstore is also in the vicinity, offering a great place to relax or find souvenirs.
For an evening visit, the Presidential Office Building is beautifully illuminated, creating a serene atmosphere. This makes it a perfect spot for a quiet walk after dinner, especially since the surrounding area can be less crowded at night. You can easily pair this with exploring nearby dining options or enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Taipei.
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