Banqiao Lin Family Garden

Banqiao Lin Family Garden

Banqiao Lin Family Garden

The premier garden attraction in northern Taiwan—Banqiao Lin Family Garden, originally named “Lin Benyuan Garden Mansion,” is located in the northwest corner of Banqiao City. It was the garden of the residence belonging to the Lin family, a prominent Hokkien merchant clan from the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. As the Lin descendants multiplied, the family named the garden “Benyuan,” meaning “original source,” to signify unity, cohabitation, and gratitude for their roots. It was reopened in 1986 after renovation and has since become a popular destination in the Greater Taipei area for those seeking historical charm and tranquility.

The current Banqiao Lin Family Garden spans approximately 3,800 pyeong (about 12,500 square meters). Following the designated tour route, visitors first encounter the “Jigu Book House,” the Lin family’s library. The name “Jigu” was inspired by the Ming Dynasty’s Mao Zijin and his Jigu Pavilion. The pavilion features an unusually shaped rain shelter in front, adding a touch of whimsy. To the east lies the “Fangjian Studio,” a study room, in front of which a deep pool holds a Xieshan-style theater stage. Watching performances across the pool from Fangjian Studio offers a distinctive experience and represents a clever design element of the garden.

The “Laiqing Pavilion,” embodying the poetic notion of “green hills and fields coming into view,” served as the Lin family’s guest reception and lodging area. In front of the pavilion stands the “KaiXuan YiXiao” theater stage, one of its notable features. Nearby, the “Xiangyu Terrace” was once filled with blooming flowers, making it a lovely spot for flower viewing. The “Guangjia Tower,” however, is the most debated structure in the garden, as its reconstruction after a wind disaster relied largely on conjecture. In the past, visitors could climb to its heights to admire the endless fields below Mount Guanyin—a magnificent view. A walk from Guangjia Tower to the Dingjing Hall takes you past the Rongyuan Large Pond, the largest body of water in the garden. The pond is surrounded by ancient banyan trees with sprawling roots and dense foliage, hence its name. Scattered around are rockeries, pavilions, fishing spots, the Yunjin Cong cascade, and the Crabapple Pond, offering a rich variety of scenic elements.

The “Dingjing Hall,” named with the meaning “only with composure can one achieve tranquility,” is the only quadrangle courtyard in the Lin Family Garden. It covers the largest area and was once used for hosting grand banquets for distinguished guests. Its design is simple and classic, exuding a strong traditional charm. The “Yuebo Waterside Pavilion,” the final highlight along the tour route, features a unique and elegant double-diamond-shaped connected architectural style, standing out with its distinctive form.

Address: No. 9, Ximen Street, Banqiao City, Taipei County

Phone: (02) 2965-3061~2

Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00

Closed: Mondays, the day after national holidays, and New Year’s Eve

Transportation: Take UBus routes 310, 307, 264, or 701; or take Green 10 operated by Taipei Bus, and get off at the Lin Family Garden stop.