Construction of the Zhaixing Residence was launched by the Qing dynasty’s Zhaoyong General Lin Chi-Chung in 1871 and completed in 1879. The structure is a traditional courtyard-style house with two quadrangles and numerous covered walkways.

Lin Chi-Chung, also known by his courtesty name Le Ching and pen name Tzai Yi, was born in 1832 and pursued a military career from an early age. After joining the local militia, the journeyed to Fujian in mainland China with Lin Wen-Cha of Wufeng in 1845, and afterwards took part in the Jianyan, Jiande, and Dingzhou military campaigns. He ended up fighting the Taiping rebels near Shanghai, where he distinguished himself on numerous occasions. His contemporaries nicknamed him Worrior and he is included among the legendary 18 Worriors from Taiwan who helped defeat the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. In 1863, Lin returned to Taiwan to take part in the campaign to queit a popular revolt led by Tai Chao-Chun in central Taiwan. He subsequently retired from the military and established the ZHAIXING Residence near his ancestral home.

Among traditional residences still standing in Taiwan, the ZHAIXING Residence is one of the best-preserved, most stately and best endowed with historic value. In particular its brick and stone carvings, Jiaozhi-style ceramics, clay sculptures, large wooden structural members, decorative paintings and defensive works are all very distinctive and exquisitely constructed, making this residence a classic among Taiwan’s traditional homes.

04-25343859

No.88, Sec. 2, Tanfu Rd., Tanzi Dist., Taichung City 42753, Taiwan (R.O.C.)

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00a.m. ~ 6:00 p.m.