Nanyuan, originally created by architect Han Pao-teh for United Daily News founder Wang Tieh-chi, has, since the arrival of The One, forged a new oriental humanities-based lifestyle space. Since its opening, it has operated on an appointment-only basis, guiding visitors through entry, in-depth tours, and lakeside dining, spearheading a trend in cultural tourism. As The One Nanyuan officially marks one year of public operation, it unveils a new lifestyle philosophy — “Joyful Year” — as it steps into 2010.
The One aims to create an immersive experience engaging all five senses and six perceptions, so that every visitor can discover joy in the little things. In 2010, The One Nanyuan will draw inspiration from various aspects of life — books, calligraphy, tranquility, conversation, wine, gardening, music, tea, observation, and chess — to convey the concept of joyful living. For instance, the upcoming event “Wine Cup Floating Along the Winding Stream” embodies this idea: wine cups are placed in a gently flowing stream, and as they drift downstream, guests seated along the banks wait for a cup to stop before them — whoever it stops at takes a sip. By recreating an elegant pastime of ancient scholars, it offers a simple, non-material form of spiritual enjoyment.
Beyond the 2010 Joyful Year, The One Nanyuan regularly attracts many artists. Calligrapher Jiang Qiuyang has a studio within the garden grounds, and visitors strolling around may catch him painting large characters with a brush on the ground. Guzheng musician Chen Zhicheng also performs regularly at Shuifengxuan, filling the air with his music.
The South Building of Nanyuan was designed by Han Pao-teh with inspiration from Zhao Boju of the Song Dynasty’s painting “A Tower in the Clouds.” It blends the architectural style of Jiangnan gardens, southern Fujian construction techniques, and Taiwanese craftsmanship to create a dragon-shaped complex encircling a water pond. To match the varying heights of the surrounding hills, the main structure is concentrated on the left. Descending from the South Building are the Qin Yin Pavilion, Bamboo Garden, Orchid Garden, and Osmanthus Garden in sequence. The flow of water harmonizes seamlessly with the architecture, and each room features its own pond and pavilion. Detailed carvings, blue-green colors, and gold tracery were all crafted by artisans with creative freedom, featuring auspicious motifs and window designs throughout — such as the peace-themed vase-shaped door or the butterfly-patterned window symbolizing layered blessings.
Strolling through the classic Chinese courtyard, one occasionally hears the strains of ancient music, embodying the charm of life in days gone by.
The One Nanyuan
Address: No. 32, Jiuxiong Lake, Xinpeng Township, Hsinchu County
Tel: 03-589-0011
Website: nanyuan.theonestyle.com
Read more: “The Aesthetics of a Single Piece of Cloth” (provided by Tripass Scenic Spots)
