That day, while looking for a free and great place to go, we actually struck gold and found this spot. The overall planning and concept are very child-friendly, making it perfect for bringing preschoolers, toddlers, or young children here. The kids will definitely be reluctant to leave. According to the official website, this place was originally renovated from the former county magistrate’s residence, and the overall environment is very beautiful and comfortable.
The back door of Douliu Children’s Official Residence has a small terrace surrounded by greenery—this really feels like an “official residence.”
At the entrance, there are playful signs and colorfully painted pillars that instantly bridge the gap with the children.
Follow the well-known cartoon characters in the children’s world and you’ll be led straight to the main gate.
Yes, to enter, you need to take off your shoes—Up on that rule!
It has a sense of design, but isn’t old-fashioned or traditional—instead, it has a relaxed and laid-back vibe. This atmosphere is not only loved by the children, but even us adults with kids feel at ease here.
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On the first floor, books are available for both adults and children to read inside the museum. The selection of books is great and all very new.
There are multiple tables, chairs, and spaces in the official residence where children can read. The most delightful spot is undoubtedly the window sill reading area.
There are several window sills where children can enjoy the greenery outside, soak up the sunshine, and dive into their books. This isn’t a library, so you can hear the sounds of children—it’s a special kind of peaceful chaos, which is unique yet wonderful. Aside from the many carefully selected children’s books, parenting books, and magazines, what drives kids crazy is the “toy lending” area on the second floor.
The day is divided into several time slots, and each time slot is limited to only 20 participants. Every child who joins must be accompanied by an adult, and during each time slot, each child can only choose “one” toy—and no changing your mind.
There are so many toys it’s dazzling, offering every kind imaginable. If I remember the count correctly, you’d have to come one time slot per day for two whole years to play with all the toys. Borrowing toys requires ID, so parents remember to bring identification. Of course, borrowing toys is completely “free.”
The second floor is just as spacious as the first floor, and you don’t have to worry about the noise of children playing reaching the sky. The space is filled with the sounds of children laughing and playing.
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There are several very thoughtful features here. First, there are many free lockable storage lockers.
Next to the play area, there are also open-style lockers.
Parents bringing children out don’t need to worry about carrying lots of bags. Second, what if you bring your child, miss the previous toy borrowing session, and have to wait for the next one? What if your child gets tired of reading?
There’s also an area on the first floor where children can play together. Lastly, the clean, bright restrooms with child-friendly designs are loved and reassuring.
I really love the concept and vision of the creators and designers. I even admire the former Yunlin female county magistrate’s good intentions in promoting such a wonderful public facility. I’d even say the environment and play space created here surpasses Taipei’s Y17. If you’re in Yunlin or Chiayi and looking for a place where kids can read and play freely, this completely free children’s official residence is highly recommended!
The former county magistrate’s residence was once a closed-off environment hidden behind tall walls concealing the old buildings. As it was a military-sensitive area (next to the Yunlin County Military Police garrison), until April of the 96th year of the Republic of China (2007), under the strong support and push of then-Magistrate Su, the walls of the old residence were torn down to create a playful, high-quality, and relaxing space. The removal of the walls symbolized the dismantling of authoritarianism, and also aimed to increase public accessibility, restore the connection between people and the land, and prevent buildings from feeling distant from the public. It aspires to be a venue that continuously introduces new activities for children’s educational play, reading, exploration, and creative learning.
Address: No. 212, Gongzheng Street, Douliu City, Yunlin County
Phone/Fax: 05-5345-951
◎ Tuesday to Wednesday and Friday: 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM
◎ Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
◎ Closed: Monday and Thursday (the last Wednesday of each month is closed for inventory and disinfection)
※ During holiday periods, the museum is closed on New Year’s Eve and Lunar New Year’s Day. Otherwise, it follows normal operating hours.
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