New Spot in Tamsui: The Former Residence of the Town Mayor with Strong Japanese Charm

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team

Get a sneak peek at Tamsui’s newest attraction before anyone else does. The hinoki wood Japanese-style building and tranquil front and back gardens are no longer just scenes from Japanese dramas. The "Former Residence of Tamsui Town Mayor Ejiri Eikichi" has undergone more than a year of preservation and restoration work and is expected to officially open for visits in mid-2016.

The New Taipei City designated historic site "Former Residence of Tamsui Town Mayor Ejiri Eikichi" is not only the first Japanese-style residence in Tamsui to be designated as a historic site, but also the first private home in Taiwan to have been connected to a tap water supply. The property covers an area of about 140 pyeong, with the building itself taking up approximately 28 pyeong. The roof tiles are traditional black cultural tiles, and the roof uses conventional wooden beams. The foundation of the building is also elevated to provide a certain degree of moisture resistance, considering Tamsui’s rainy climate—showing that local environmental characteristics were taken into account during construction.

Ejiri Eikichi was originally a businessman who came to Taiwan. He served as Tamsui Town Mayor (equivalent to today’s district mayor) from 1930 to 1933, during which he promoted initiatives such as widening roads in Tamsui, adding facilities, renovating libraries, and establishing schools. The private residence located at No. 19 MacKay Street was built in 1934. Due to its higher elevation, it boasts natural views of Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River, and is close to popular historic sites such as Fort San Domingo and the Beitou White House. It’s a great spot for leisurely strolls, relaxation, and exploring historical charm.