Dadaocheng Gu Family Mansion Introduction
Located at No. 9, Lane 303, Guizui Street, the Gu Family Salt House was built by Gu Xianrong, the father of former Straits Exchange Foundation Chairman Gu Zhengfu, in 1910. Since the Gu family was engaged in the salt industry at that time, this Gu mansion has also been referred to as the "Salt House." It faces the Tamsui River wharf, as the building was constructed near the river for business purposes, allowing boats to dock right in front of the house. The Gu family moved out in 1961, and in 1963, a kindergarten called Rongxing Kindergarten was established at the current site, which continues to operate to this day. This building is quite distinctive, designed in a late Renaissance style with a western influence, featuring an arcade at the front, light yellow facade bricks, elegant arched windows, and glazed floral railings. The intricate emblems and relief decorations on the central gable reflect the trend of Western influence during that era and represent the homes of the wealthy at that time. Inside, the finely crafted cypress wood ceiling and staircase are well preserved, and the walls still bear the logo of the Dahe Yixing, operated by Gu Xianrong. The Gu Family Salt House not only witnesses the prosperity of the Gu family but has also become a part of Taipei's history.
