First Hotel Introduction
The First Guest House is a building from the Japanese colonial period, featuring a mix of Western and Japanese architectural styles. The original guest house was built in 1912 by the Japanese government to commemorate the 223 officers and men who lost their lives on the Matsushima warship in an explosion in the waters off Penghu in 1908. It primarily served as a guesthouse for the Japanese imperial family and high-ranking officials. Later, in 1940, due to the construction of the first fishing port in Magong, the guest house was relocated to a higher ground north of Guanyinting, providing a more expansive view. After World War II, the Nationalist government took over the guest house, and following President Chiang Kai-shek's stay, the Japanese-style decor was changed to a Western-style living space, and an underground wartime command center was built. During the 823 Artillery Bombardment in Kinmen, it became the center for military operation planning. After President Chiang Kai-shek moved back to Taipei, it was renamed the "First Guest House." In 2011, after the completion of structural renovations, the First Guest House, which was designated as a county historical site, officially opened to the public. Today, visitors can see the entrance roof styled in "Tang Bo" style, with the entrance floor and walls made of the unique shell sand from Penghu. The interior reflects the living conditions of the "Chiang Residence," and there is also a tranquil and elegant garden outside, enhancing the grace of this building with mixed architectural styles.
Old Photo Exhibition