Chen Tianlai's Former Residence Introduction
※March 27, 2024 Cultural Heritage Restoration - Temporarily Closed. The architectural restoration is expected to be completed by the end of 2027 to early 2028. Dadaocheng was once one of the most prosperous metropolitan areas in Taiwan, and Guide Street became "valuable due to tea." Many merchants engaged in the tea trade became wealthy, and Chen Tianlai was one of them. Chen Tianlai founded Jin Ji Tea House and invested in entertainment businesses such as Penglai Pavilion, No. 1 Theater, and Yongle Theater. The former residence of Chen Tianlai, located at No. 73 Guide Street, was once the "Jin Ji Tea House." This three-story building, designed in a Neo-Baroque style, was constructed in 1920. The first floor served as a trading space, the second floor was a tea merchant's guesthouse, and the third floor was for residential use. Its exterior is grand and features European style, comprising a central main body and two side towers. The main body is adorned with floral decorations, corbels, classical columns, and large arcades, exuding a romantic atmosphere. It was once a regular gathering place for Dadaocheng tea merchants to enjoy tea and gaze at the Danshui River wharf, renowned far and wide. A private garden lies at the back adjacent to Gangzai Stream (now Xining North Road), which served as an important witness to the glorious years of Dadaocheng in the first half of the 20th century.
