The building is constructed primarily from high-grade Hinoki cypress, a material prized for its durability and scent.
The residence was designated as a historic building by Yilan County in 2001.
It served as the official residence for successive magistrates, housing Japanese officials during the colonial era and later Nationalist government officials.
The surrounding landscape design mimics traditional Japanese garden aesthetics, incorporating gravel paths and native foliage to reflect the original 1906 layout.
The Memorial Hall of Founding of Yilan Administration is housed in a restored 1906 Japanese-style wooden residence that formerly served as the official magistrate's dormitory. The building features traditional Japanese architectural elements, including hinoki cypress wood construction and a sprawling, tranquil garden. It chronicles the administrative evolution of Yilan, transitioning from the Qing Dynasty to the Japanese colonial period and the post-war era. Visitors explore exhibits documenting local governance, urban planning, and the socioeconomic history of the Yilan Plain. The site is a rare example of preserved colonial-era administrative housing in northeastern Taiwan. Educational displays provide context on how this specific residence reflected the status of local officials during the early 20th century.
The elevated wooden veranda overlooking the Japanese-style garden.
Walk the perimeter of the garden before entering to appreciate the historic exterior architecture.
Look for the interpretive plaques in the garden that explain the architectural significance of the wooden joinery.
Remove your shoes before entering the interior wooden floors as is required by local preservation protocols.
Do not wear footwear that is difficult to slip on or off, as it will slow down your entry and exit from the interior rooms.
Closed on Mondays and the day following national holidays.
Shoes must be removed at the entrance; please wear socks as required by the museum staff.
