Jiaobanshan Presidential Villa was built in the 1920s during the Japanese colonial period, originally serving as a summer retreat for officials of the Taiwan Governor-General's Office within the traditional territory of the Atayal people. After 1945 it became a summer residence for Chiang Kai-shek. Today it is open to visitors, with the Japanese timber-frame building preserved. Plum trees in the surrounding garden bloom in late winter to early spring each year. It is a combined cultural and nature attraction pairing the highland environment of Fuxing District with a historic building.
What to See at Jiaobanshan Presidential Villa
The villa was built in the Japanese timber-frame architectural style, with roof pitch and veranda proportions consistent with the standard official residence format of the Taisho era. The timber members have been maintained and retain their original character. From the villa's position, visitors can look out over the canyon topography of the upper Dahan River. The place name Jiaobanshan itself derives from a Chinese phonetic transcription of an Atayal toponym. During the Japanese colonial period, the site served as one of the administrative nodes for controlling the traditional Atayal territory, carrying the spatial significance of colonial history.
The plum garden occupies sloping ground surrounding the villa and contains several plum varieties. It typically blooms from January to March, with the precise timing varying by year depending on temperature. The blooming season draws local residents and visitors from further afield. The highland elevation means temperatures are lower here than on the plains, so warm clothing is needed when viewing the blossoms. After the blossoms drop, the park returns to its everyday greenery; the villa buildings themselves are open for visits year-round.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- From Daxi, take a Taoyuan Bus toward Fuxing; the Jiaobanshan section has a stop. Schedules differ between weekdays and weekends — check in advance.
- Driving: take Provincial Highway 7 or connect via Highway 3; the road is winding — drive carefully. Parking is limited.
- Villa opening hours follow the management authority's announcements; expect larger crowds on holiday weekends during plum blossom season.
Nearby Connections
- Can be combined with Cihu Mausoleum in a single day, connecting the sites along Provincial Highway 7 from Daxi to Fuxing.
- Fuxing District has Atayal tribal communities; if you are interested in learning about indigenous culture, booking a local guided tour in advance is recommended — respect tribal protocols.
Sources: Fuxing District Office and cultural heritage related materials. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.