Dadaocheng Gu Family Mansion Introduction
The Gu Family Salt Warehouse, located at Lane 9, No. 303, Guishui Street, was built in 1910 by Gu Xianrong, the father of Gu Zhenfu, the former chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council. As the Gu family was engaged in the salt business at the time, this mansion has always been referred to as "Salt Warehouse." It faces the Tamsui River wharf, and the house was originally built by the riverbank for business purposes, allowing boats to dock right in front of the house. The Gu family moved out of the mansion in 1961, and in 1963, the current site was established as Rongxing Kindergarten, which continues to operate today. This building is quite distinctive, designed in the Late Renaissance style, featuring an arcade in the front, light yellow facade bricks, elegant arch windows, and ceramic flower railings. The intricate emblem and relief decorations on the central gable reflect the trend of Western influence during that era, representing the rich families of the time. Inside, the finely crafted cypress wood ceilings and stairs have been well preserved, and there are still markings of the Daitō Trading Company, which was run by Gu Xianrong on the walls. The Gu Family Salt Warehouse not only witnessed the prosperity of the Gu family but has also become a significant part of Taipei's history.
