A historic building is the time traveler that it's a "witness" to what had happened here and experienced all the histories with those people who lived here, whether tears or laughter.
When you click the Google Earth map at south of Taichung, you will notice a large area of red brick historic houses where is the national historical site – Wufeng Lin Family Mansion and Garden. These buildings and garden describe nearly 300years history of Taiwan. Wufeng Lin's Gongbaodi is a five hall -buildings with eleven blocks which is quiet huge comparing to other historic building at the same age in Taiwan.
The historical site comprises 3 parts: the Lower Mansion, the Upper Mansion, and the Lai Garden. Gongbaodi of the lower mansion, means the residence of first grade officer in Qing Dynasty. Lin's ancestor laid down his life for Qing dynasty in 1864 and the emperor canonized him as Princes Shaobao (means princes' tutor or mentor) which is the first-grade officer at the time.
In 1885, one member of Lin's was conferred the exclusive right to sell rice and camphor which make the Lin's obtain huge property. You might be curious, why did they get rich because of camphor? It is because camphor was a key material for making smokeless powder in 1880 which increased the stability of fire powder then make it easier for transportation. Almost 70% of camphor were from Taiwan in late 19th century.
The Lower Mansion was reopened for public since 2014 after renovation and repairing from earthquake damage. Those aquiculture and decoration are eye-catching to visitors. The most classic must-see is the exquisite and luxurious Dahuating (Big Parlour) with a gorgeous stage. A famous Taiwanese signer Jolin and Namie Amuro had filmed a co-work music video here.
Right beside the Lin's mansion there is another must-visit national historical site "YiPu" which was built in 1906 and completed in 1914 which was Lin's personal guest house and was open to the public in 2020. There are many interesting stories and treasures to find out. No more spoil, just come to visit and it definitely worthy.
Yi Pu only open in weekends and visitors need to follow the guide tour. Reservation can be done on website or check the availability on site.。One hour tour at 10:30、14:00、16:00,3 tours per day during weekends.