Lin Ben Yuan Garden Introduction
The Lin Ben Yuan Estate, which has existed for over a century, served as a rental residence for the Lin family during the Qing Dynasty. It was later expanded by the two brothers, Lin Kuo-hua and Lin Kuo-fang. Despite the ravages of war and the passage of time leaving it with a few weathered marks, the estate has been meticulously restored by the government, allowing it to once again offer visitors a rich sense of nostalgia through its finely crafted architecture. As you enter the Lin Ben Yuan Estate, you are greeted by elegant classical pavilions, small bridges over flowing water, and the reflection of lush weeping willows on the lake, providing a tranquil experience amidst the bustling city. The Lin Ben Yuan Estate is divided into the "Banchiao Lin Family Garden" and the "Lin Ben Yuan Residence." The Banchiao Lin Family Garden refers to the courtyard outside the residence, which includes the tallest and most exquisite structure in the area, the Lai Qing Pavilion. It was named "Lai Qing" because visitors once enjoyed views of Guanyin Mountain and Datun Mountain from the pavilion; it was also a place for receiving distinguished guests. In the center of the pond, you can find the Moon Waves Pavilion, perfect for moon viewing. The largest area in the estate is the "Ding Jing Hall," which served as the venue for large banquets in the past. Additionally, there are various beautiful man-made landscapes where visitors can observe the lake's ecology from the pavilions. The Lin Ben Yuan Residence, the ancestral home of the Banchiao Lin family, is a three-section grand house located on the western side of the estate. Visitors can first register at the service desk for a guided tour and learn about the quintessential Qing Dynasty residence under the guidance of a tour teacher. Within the courtyard of the three-section grand house stands the "Stone Tablet of Imperial Edict," which is said to have been a reward for the Lin family's past donations to the Qing court, bestowed by Empress Cixi in the name of Emperor Guangxu, illustrating the close relationship between the Lin family and the court at the time. Visitors can also closely observe the exquisite carvings on the crow-stepped roof of the grand house, featuring symbols of longevity like turtles and auspicious qilin, representing the aspirations of the Lin family. As you stroll through the Lin Ben Yuan Estate, you can still feel the grandeur of a wealthy family from the past. When visiting, take the time to admire the floral carvings on the architecture and consider stopping by the "Ji Gu Book House," a former library, to purchase delightful cultural and creative souvenirs. (Source: New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Website)
