Presidential Palace (总统府)

The Presidential Palace (总统府, Zǒngtǒng Fǔ) is where modern Chinese history unfolded. The site has served as the headquarters of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, the Qing Dynasty viceroy, and the Republic of China.

What to See

Main Building — A grand Western-style building where Chiang Kai-shek and later Sun Yat-sen worked. The interior is preserved as it was in the 1940s.

Garden — A beautiful Chinese garden behind the main building — a peaceful escape from the crowds. The garden has ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees.

Exhibition Halls — Several halls trace the history of the site from the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom to the Republic of China.

Office of the President — The actual office where Chiang Kai-shek worked, preserved with original furniture.

Practical Tips

• Entry fee: ¥35 ($5)
• Closed on Mondays
• Allow at least 2 hours
• The garden is often overlooked — worth a visit
• The palace is near the Ming Palace metro station