Dadaocheng Gu Family Residence

The Gu Family Salt House, located at No. 9, Lane 303, Gueilung Street, was built in 1910 by Gu Hsien-jung, father of Koo Chen-fu, former chairman of the Straits Exchange Foundation. Because the Gu family operated a salt business at the time, this grand Gu family residence has always been known as the 'Salt House.' It faced the Tamsui River pier, originally built for business purposes so that boats could dock directly in front of the house, which was situated by the river. The Gu family moved out of the residence in 1961, and in 1963, Rongxing Kindergarten was established on the site, where it remains today. This building is quite distinctive, designed in a late Western Renaissance style. It features an arcade at the front, a facade of light yellow bricks, elegant arched windows, and glazed floral railings. The elaborate medallion and relief decorations on the central gable reflect the trend of Westernization prevalent during that era, making it a representative example of wealthy homes at the time. Inside, the meticulously crafted cypress ceilings and staircases are remarkably well-preserved. The walls also bear markers of the Yamato Trading Company, which was operated by Gu Hsien-jung. The Gu Family Salt House not only bore witness to the prosperity of the Gu family but also became a significant chapter in Taipei's history.