Zhongshan Building

Zhongshan Building

The Zhongshan Building is located in the verdant valleys of Yangmingshan in Taipei. It is a grand building designed in the traditional Chinese palace style and was once used as a high-level official meeting venue for the Taiwan authorities. It is now managed by the Taipei “National Father Memorial Hall.” The design was created by the well-known Taiwanese architect Ms. Shiu Juelan, based on ideas from Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling. It follows the architectural styles of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and all materials used in its construction were sourced locally within Taiwan.

The Zhongshan Building has a total floor area of 15,000 square meters and consists of three levels. Its roof is covered with green glazed tiles, featuring upturned eaves and ridges, giving it the majestic appearance of a roc spreading its wings when viewed from afar. The design adheres to traditional Chinese architectural theories, emphasizing symmetry, balance, and harmony with the surrounding natural environment. It is flanked by two mountain peaks, with its central axis aligned to a circular volcanic rock hill, which is said to carry the feng shui concept of a “dragon spitting out a pearl.” In front of the building stands a large archway, on which are inscribed, on the front and back respectively, the phrases “The Practice of the Great Way” and “The World Belongs to All,” both calligraphed by Dr. Sun Yat-sen. The floors of each level inside the building are paved with marble and covered with carpets. There are 408 ornamental palace lanterns in various sizes and shapes, with 48 different styles.

Not only does the Zhongshan Building boast a grand exterior, but it also houses a large collection of artistic treasures made of wood, stone, jade, and pottery—each deeply embodying the essence of Chinese culture and of immense value, leaving visitors in awe.

Chung-Shan Building

Must-visit reason: The only building in the world currently constructed over a sulfur vent