The main museum building was constructed in 1943 as the administrative office for the Chiayi Shrine.
The structure is built entirely from Japanese cedar and cypress, utilizing traditional interlocking wood construction without iron nails.
Following the end of the Japanese colonial period, the site was repurposed as the Chiayi Martyrs' Shrine office before being converted into a city museum.
The museum grounds contain remnants of the former Chiayi Shrine, including stone lion statues (komainu) and stone lanterns.
The site was designated as a City Historical Site by the Chiayi City Government in 1998.
It is frequently referred to locally as 'J-18', reflecting its historical connection to the Japanese era dating back to the 18th year of the Showa Emperor's reign.
The Chiayi City Historical Relic Museum is housed within the former 'Showa-era' shrine office building, a preserved wooden structure from the Japanese colonial period. The facility functions as a cultural hub showcasing Chiayi’s transition from a forestry center to a modern city. The site is part of the larger Chiayi Park complex, which preserves various colonial-era architectural legacies. Visitors can access on-site kimono rental services to wear traditional attire while traversing the historic wooden galleries and landscaped surroundings. The museum displays artifacts related to local railway history, forestry industry development, and archaeological findings from the region. The building's architecture reflects typical Japanese 'Shoin-zukuri' influence, featuring distinct joinery and timber framing techniques. It serves as a focal point for understanding the urban development of Chiayi during the early 20th century. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on Taiwanese art and local historical narratives.
The wooden veranda (engawa) overlooking the Japanese-style garden.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Chiayi Park to see additional historical stone ruins.
Check the official Facebook page before visiting, as it is the primary channel for updates on kimono rental availability and special exhibitions.
Allow extra time if you plan to rent a kimono, as the dressing process and photography sessions within the wooden interior take time.
Do not overlook the outdoor garden areas, as many remnants of the original shrine are situated outside the main building.
Closed on Mondays.
Visitors must remove shoes before stepping onto the traditional wooden floors inside the museum.
