Taichung City Hall Introduction
Taichung City Hall was constructed during the Japanese colonial period in 1911 (the 44th year of the Meiji era). The building is notable for its neoclassical architectural style, specifically the characteristic red and white brick walls of the Tsen-wo style, and it was the first reinforced concrete structure in the Taichung area. Originally serving as the office for the Taichung Public Irrigation Association and the administrative office of Taichung City, it has also functioned as a municipal archives center, a press room, and office space for the Transportation Bureau. It stands as a prominent landmark and a historical symbol of the city, and in 2002, it was announced as a historical building. The design of the City Hall is reminiscent of the Baroque style, classified as a large modern government building. Its openings emphasize stylistic expression, with varied windows and doors that are quite elaborate. The main entrance features a two-story columned porch with typical Greek Ionic columns, with a facade adorned in plaster and keystone details, and decorative gables. The classical and ornate dome comprises eight wooden trusses, making it not only visually impressive but also one of the few wooden domes of its kind in Taiwan from the same period, surrounded by circular skylights. This building incorporates brick, wood, reinforced concrete, and steel structures, representing a classic case of architectural construction techniques from the Japanese colonial era. In 2004, Taichung City Hall completed its investigation, research, and restoration reuse planning; restoration was finished in 2016. The Cultural Affairs Bureau has since commissioned private operators to manage the site, and it is currently operated by "Hao Yi Si Co., Ltd." The first floor features the "Hao Yi Si Art and Cultural Space," which plans themed permanent exhibitions, a shared reading area, displays of local industries, and experiences of cultural and aesthetic handicrafts. The second floor hosts the Italian restaurant "Narratore," offering Northern Italian cuisine, overseen by Chef Lance Lin, who previously worked at a Michelin one-star restaurant in Italy. It is hoped that Taichung City Hall will become a gathering place for artistic and cultural energy in West Taichung, bridging the gap between the public and historical culture, stimulating local economic activity, and becoming a representative historical and cultural building in Taichung. Opening hours: 1F "Hao Yi Si" Art and Cultural Space: Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM 2F "Narratore" Italian Restaurant: Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
