Wisteria Teahouse Introduction
Wisteria Teahouse is more than just a teahouse; it is the first designated historic site in Taiwan and the first living historic site in Taipei identified for its cultural and historical significance as well as its public space connotation. It serves as a gathering place for Taiwan's democratic movements, opposition movements, and free scholars, exuding a rich cultural atmosphere with educational, cultural, and political functions and characteristics, while strongly reflecting the cultural significance of civic life and possessing preservation value. Wisteria Teahouse is an elegant wooden building located in an area concentrated with Japanese-style residences, originally built in the 1920s. It is a standalone property, situated in a tranquil and refined environment. After the war, it was taken over by the Ministry of Finance and later became a teahouse established by the descendants of former residents. Due to the old wisteria vine stretching along the eaves of the house, it was named "Wisteria Teahouse." The entire building is filled with an artistic atmosphere, attracting many individuals concerned with current affairs, avant-garde culture, and artists who often gather here. Consequently, this place has gradually become synonymous with liberalism and the space for social and political reform movements. In recognition of Wisteria Teahouse's cultural value, it was designated as a historic site in 1997 after efforts by individuals from the art and cultural community to ensure its preservation. This was not due to the age of the trees or the building itself, but rather the spirit it embodies. (Source: Wisteria Teahouse)
