Originally built by architect Han Pao-teh for United Daily News founder Wang Ti-wu, Nanyuan has, since The One's takeover, created a new Oriental cultural living space. Ever since its opening, the estate has operated on an appointment-only visiting system. Through entry, in-depth guided tours, and lakeside dining, it has pioneered a trend in cultural tourism. As The One Nanyuan celebrates its first full year of official operation, it ushers in 2010 with a new lifestyle concept: “Joyful Year.”
The One aims to create an immersive experience engaging all five senses and six faculties, allowing every visitor to discover joy in the little things. In 2010, The One Nanyuan will explore various aspects of life—books, calligraphy, tranquility, conversation, wine, planting, music, tea, observation, and chess—to convey the concept of finding joy in everyday moments. For instance, the upcoming “Wine Cup Floating” event embodies this idea: wine cups are placed in a flowing stream, and as they drift downstream, guests seated along the banks wait for a cup to stop before them—when it does, they drink from it. By reviving this elegant ancient pastime, the event offers a simple, non-material form of spiritual pleasure.
Beyond the Joyful Year 2010, The One Nanyuan regularly attracts many artists. Calligrapher Jiang Qiu-yang has a studio in one of the estate’s rooms, and visitors strolling through may catch him practicing his art with a large brush on the ground. Guzheng musician Chen Zhi-cheng also performs regularly at Shui Feng Xuan, filling the space with the sound of his music.
The South Building of Nanyuan was designed by Han Pao-teh with inspiration from Zhao Boju’s Song Dynasty painting “A Towering Pavilion,” integrating elements of Jiangnan garden architecture, southern Fujian construction styles, and Taiwanese craftsmanship. It forms a dragon-shaped complex encircling a central pond. To match the heights of the surrounding hills, the main structure is concentrated on the left side. Descending from the South Building are, in order, the Qin Yin Ge (Music Pavilion), Bamboo Courtyard, Orchid Courtyard, and Osmanthus Courtyard. The flow of water harmonizes seamlessly with the buildings, with each room having its own dedicated pond and pavilion. Intricate carvings, blue-green glazes, and gold accents were all crafted by artisans, featuring numerous auspicious motifs and decorative doors and windows—such as the peace-symbolizing vase-shaped door and the butterfly window representing stacked blessings.
Strolling through the classic Chinese-style courtyards, with occasional strains of traditional music drifting by, you can truly feel the essence of life in ancient times.
The One Nanyuan
Address: No. 32, Jiuxiong Lake, Xinzhuang Township, Hsinchu County
Phone: 03-589-0011
Website: nanyuan.theonestyle.com
Further Reading: “Architecture as a Single Piece of Cloth” (Architectural Aesthetics, provided by Tripass Scenic Spots)
