The original 1917 building functioned as an exclusive 'ryotei' restaurant specializing in Japanese cuisine for Taipei's elite.
The structure survived several major fires in the mid-20th century before being abandoned and later salvaged for restoration.
The name 'Kishu An' translates to 'Kishu Cottage,' named after the hometown of the original Japanese proprietor in the Wakayama Prefecture.
During the post-war period, the building served as a dormitory for government employees, leading to significant structural modifications that were reversed during the 2011 restoration.
The center holds a permanent archive documenting the evolution of Taiwanese literature and local poetry movements.
Kishu An Forest of Literature is a preserved Japanese-style wooden structure originally built in 1917 as a high-end restaurant by the Hiramatsu family. Following a fire and subsequent restoration, the site now serves as a literary arts center dedicated to Taiwanese literature. The complex features a main building with traditional tatami mat rooms, a secondary annex, and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Xindian River bank. It hosts rotating exhibitions, lectures, and author workshops focusing on contemporary local writers. The onsite teahouse offers traditional refreshments integrated into the historical architectural setting. The site is a municipally designated historical building representing the colonial-era architecture of the Guting area. It functions as an urban retreat that connects literary history with the surrounding riverside park landscape.
The elevated wooden veranda overlooking the Japanese-style garden and the greenery of the surrounding park.
Remove your shoes before entering the main wooden structure as required for preservation.
Check the official website calendar in advance if you want to attend specific literary workshops or author talks.
Sit on the veranda of the teahouse for a view of the river park during late afternoon.
Do not attempt to walk on the wooden terrace with sharp-heeled shoes or bring heavy luggage inside the historical building.
Closed on Mondays.
Shoes must be removed before entering the indoor tatami areas; maintain a quiet voice as the venue hosts active writing and reading events.
