[2025 Hualien Attraction] Travel Guide for Manor House (Updated Jul)

Hualien in the afternoon, with its gentle sunlight, is the perfect time for a nostalgic walk. I planned a half-day trip that feels like traveling back in time, starting at Songyuan Villa and slowly immersing myself in the Japanese historical charm of Hualien. The first stop is Songyuan Villa, perched on a small hill. Once a resting place for Japanese military officers, it is surrounded by old pine trees and features elegant architecture. From the second-floor platform, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and Hualien Port, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. Next, I visited the Hualien Port Broadcasting Station, a building constructed in 1944 during the Japanese occupation. Now transformed into an art exhibition space, its simple exterior and retro recording studio seem to echo the broadcasts of the past. The final stop is the Hualien General's Residence, often referred to as "Little Kyoto of Hualien." The wooden old house and tatami rooms exude a Showa-era ambiance. Today, it combines cultural creativity with dining, making it the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a bowl of Japanese-style dessert as a delightful conclusion. This small trip is not just about visiting attractions; it feels more like a quiet dialogue with the past. --- Location Check-ins: Songyuan Villa｜No. 65, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Hualien Port Broadcasting Station｜No. 69, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Hualien General's Residence｜No. 12, Minquan 9th Street, Hualien City

The General's Mansion is located next to the riverside walkway by the Meilun River. It is a military officer's residence from the Japanese colonial period that has been renovated and revitalized for use. The restoration took several years, and it officially began operations in April 2024. The park retains a Japanese ambiance, with each cypress wood building being comfortably arranged and filled with the fragrance of wood. It has now earned the nickname 'Little Kyoto of Hualien.' Currently, the entrance is free, and visitors can make reservations via LINE. It is a suitable spot for travelers in Hualien to take a leisurely stroll.

When you think of Hualien, you might first picture the ocean at Qixingtan or the mountains of Taroko Gorge. But nestled in the bustling city center is a tranquil space that takes you back in time: Hualien General's Residence. This is one of the most well-preserved Japanese-style official residences in Hualien. From the stone-paved path at the entrance, the wooden architecture, the old banyan tree, to the dancing shadows by the windows, every detail invites you to slow down and quietly appreciate the charm of history. 🏠 What is the "General's Residence"? A glimpse into the life of a Japanese Army Lieutenant General in Hualien Originally built during the Japanese colonial period, this residence was the official home of Japanese Army Lieutenant General Yoshida Kansaburo, hence the name "General's Residence." While the architectural style is simple, it showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Japanese artisans, including mortise-and-tenon joints, ventilation designs, and the deep wooden tones of the materials. The building is exceptionally well-preserved, offering a tangible and visible connection to history. Uniquely, it is located right in the heart of Hualien City, within walking distance of the train station and shopping district, making it a hidden gem for a leisurely stroll. 📸 Photo Highlights: Vintage Wooden House × Banyan Tree × Sunlit Window Shadows The General's Residence is a standalone Japanese-style wooden house featuring black tiles, white walls, dark brown wooden beams, and a lush green courtyard. Every angle is picture-perfect! 📌 Recommended Photo Spots: ✔ Silhouette shots by the wooden lattice windows ✔ Atmospheric side shots of the corridor and stone steps ✔ Pair with Japanese-style or linen outfits for a chic aesthetic ✔ The old banyan tree and garden corners make the perfect backdrop for low-saturation, film-style photos 🪑 What else is in the area? Cultural space + Exhibitions + Coffee corner Currently managed by the Hualien County Cultural Bureau, the General's Residence includes small exhibition spaces and hosts art and cultural activities such as tea gatherings, craft markets, and small performances. Some rooms are open for visitors, allowing you to explore the old kitchen, reception room, and tatami-style rooms to experience the layout and details of early Japanese high-end residences. The courtyard also features simple seating and pavilions where you can relax, daydream, and enjoy tea after a stroll. 📍 Transportation and Visitor Information: 👉🏻 Address: No. 6, Lane 622, Zhongzheng Road, Hualien City, Hualien County 👉🏻 Admission: Free 👉🏻 Suggested visit duration: 30–60 minutes, can be paired with other cultural spots in the city 👉🏻 Nearby attractions: Pine Garden, Railway Culture Park, Hualien Cultural and Creative Park, Old Railway Pedestrian Zone Sometimes, travel isn't about checking off popular landmarks but about finding a quiet place to daydream and converse with time. The General's Residence may lack the bustling crowds of tourist hotspots, but it possesses a serene beauty, like a faded old photograph quietly narrating Hualien's past and present.

📍Address No. 6, Lane 622, Zhongzheng Road, Hualien City, Hualien County 👉 It is close to Hualien Cultural and Creative Industry Park and Meilun River. It is one of the important official residences during the Japanese colonial period. It is now a hot spot for young people who combine history, coffee and exhibitions. ⸻ 🕒Business hours Daily business hours: 10:00-18:00 (closed on Tuesdays) • The indoor exhibition area and the coffee space are open at the same time. • If there are special exhibitions or private events, there may be slight adjustments. It is recommended to check the official social media in advance. ⸻ 🚍Transportation From Hualien Station or downtown: 1. Walking/biking: • It is about a 10-minute walk from Hualien Cultural and Creative Park or Dongdamen Night Market. 2. Bus: • Take Hualien Bus to "Zhongzheng Road" or "Hualien Cultural and Creative Station" and walk about 3 minutes. 3. Self-driving/renting a motorcycle: • It takes about 5 to 10 minutes to drive from Hualien City, and parking is available nearby. ⸻ ✅Recommendation reasons • Built in 1936, it was originally the residence of a major general of the army during the Japanese occupation period. It is one of the few Japanese-style officer residences preserved intact in Hualien. • It adopts a mixed Japanese and Western architectural style, including the entrance, wooden roof frame, tatami room, traditional Japanese roof tiles and garden. • Currently, it combines cultural and historical exhibitions, selection shops, old house coffee and art salon activities, which is full of literary and artistic atmosphere. • It is a fun and educational place. You can not only taste tea and appreciate architecture, but also gain an in-depth understanding of Hualien’s modern military and urban development history. • It is a great stop for old house lovers, photography enthusiasts, Japanese architecture fans and slow travelers.

Walking leisurely along the tree-lined streets of Hualien City, you’ll find yourself turning into a quiet alley between Zhongzheng Road and Minzu Road. Here lies a historical gem tucked away from the bustling city—the "General's Residence." This old house, a relic from the Japanese colonial era, now stands serenely amidst a lush courtyard, like an elegant yet whispering elder recounting tales of bygone days. Originally built as the residence for the commander of the Japanese Army's 7th Infantry Regiment during the colonial period, the house later became the home of high-ranking officers of the Nationalist government, earning its name "General's Residence." Its architecture blends Japanese and Western styles, featuring red brick walls, wooden beams, and sloped tile roofs. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail—from the wooden carvings under the eaves to the intricate patterns on the window grilles, and even the weathered stone steps that bear the marks of time, each element serving as a footnote to history. Stepping into the courtyard, you’re greeted by dappled shadows cast by towering trees and the faint aroma of pinewood in the air. Here, the urban clamor fades away, replaced by the chirping of birds, the hum of insects, and the soft crunch of footsteps on gravel. Inside the house, sunlight streams through lattice windows, creating a play of light and shadow on the walls, painting a picture of tranquil afternoons. Each room has been preserved in its original state, with some displaying historical photographs and artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into the military and political life of the past. What’s truly delightful is that the General's Residence has transformed from a mere historical relic into a vibrant cultural and artistic space. It frequently hosts photography exhibitions, tea ceremonies, and guided tours, breathing new life and warmth into the old house while preserving its historical essence. Occasionally, you might spot travelers quietly sitting in a corner of the courtyard, coffee in hand, chatting softly with friends, as if this place has become a sanctuary for the soul. Hualien is known for its majestic mountains and seas, but it also boasts delicate and graceful historical corners like the General's Residence. If you’re weary of hectic itineraries and yearn for a place to slow down, listen to the past, and reconnect with yourself, then step into the General's Residence. Amidst the tranquility of the old house and its verdant surroundings, you may just find your own timeless journey.

Walking into the General's Mansion on Linzheng Street in Hualien City, it feels like traveling back to the Showa era. This old wooden house from the Japanese colonial period was originally the residence of high-ranking military officers. Now it has been transformed into an elegant corner that combines history, art and tea fragrance. It is also known as the "Little Kyoto of Hualien." The exquisite beauty of Japanese architecture Pushing open the wooden door, you will see that the house retains the design of tatami, paper sliding doors and low wooden beams. The sunlight shines through the wooden windows, and time seems to slow down. The courtyard has dry landscapes and stone lanterns, and is full of greenery, making you feel like you are in the alleys of Kyoto. Recommended reason Whether you like taking photos, enjoying the literary and artistic atmosphere, or simply want to slow down, the General's Mansion is worth a visit. This is not only a historical building, but also a corner for quietly telling stories. Location check-in: Hualien General's Mansion｜Linzheng Street, Hualien City #Hualien Little Kyoto #General Mansion #Japanese Old House #Hualien Historical Buildings #Slow Travel #Linzheng Street #Japanese Style #Tatami Afternoon Tea #Must Visit for Young Artists #Hualien Stroll #AprilGoodDestinations2025

Hualien General's House is located by the Meilun River. It is an ancient building made of cypress wood with a history of over a hundred years. This building is full of rich Japanese style, giving you an experience like traveling through a time tunnel. This place is not only a tourist attraction but also a place that brings together various cultural experiences. Inside Hualien General's House, you can find well-known restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops in Hualien. You can taste local specialties and snacks, enjoying a gourmet journey. Moreover, you can experience wearing traditional Japanese clothing here, feel the charm of Japanese culture, and take unique photos in traditional attire, leaving precious memories. Hualien General's House 1936 No. 6, Lane 622, Zhongzheng Road, Hualien City, Hualien County 970, Taiwan

#2月好去地方2025 Japanese-style dormitory by Meilun Creek in Hualien There are county-level monuments and historical buildings in the dormitory complex All eight buildings are made of wood and black tiles Recreate the atmosphere of Kyoto in a second under the blue sky and water light Activities that combine local culture, art and food Allow tourists to experience the charm of Hualien in many aspects This is the General Mansion 1936 Park 📍Address: No. 6, Lane 622, Zheng Road, Hualien City Open from Monday to Sunday at 10:00 every day #Hualien #Culture New #Japanese Architecture and Art

#JanuaryGoodPlace2025 #Hualien Hualien General Mansion 1936 was an officer dormitory during the Japanese occupation. After renovation, it was named Hualien General Mansion. An old house full of Japanese architectural style. Walking in it feels like traveling back to the Japanese occupation era. It turns out that one of the buildings is actually a historical monument. The other seven buildings are also historical buildings with a long history! There are old trees, ponds, and low vegetation in the park. The landscaping is exquisite, and the trails are smooth and easy to walk. You can also push a baby stroller, which is suitable for taking children out for a walk. 🥐There are 16 restaurants and gift shops in the General's Mansion. The most talked-about one is "OOA". Chen Yaoxun was invited to use taro from Hualien to make "Taro Egg Yolk Crisp" and "Salted Egg Yolk Taro Croissant". 🍛This time we went to eat "Home Curry". There are two kinds of dipping sauces for fried chicken curry. One is a slightly spicy red curry, and the other is a green curry, which goes well with rice! Even the after-meal dessert - freshly baked egg cake - is very delicious!

#1月好去地方2025 Taking advantage of the good weather on the weekend, I took my kids to visit the Hualien General's Mansion. This century-old Japanese building stands quietly, and its wooden structure and Japanese-style courtyard are full of historical atmosphere. We had a great time walking along the cobblestone path. Here you can not only feel the history, but also have a rest space suitable for parents and children. In the afternoon sun, buy a cup of coffee and quietly enjoy the leisure, as if time has slowed down, quietly enjoy the history and scenery of Hualien.

Traffic Tips: Must-see attractions: Recommended restaurants: Must-try food: They only sell this special flavor of croissants. If you like taro paste and salted duck eggs, don’t miss it. 😋 Shopping Guide: 💰Average consumption per person: 150NT 🏖️Atmosphere/facilities: Beautiful Japanese-style wooden houses, and tea is available for you to enjoy. 📍Address: Store G2, Jiangjunfu, with a carousel at the door. #General's House #Golden Sand Taro Croissant

#Great Places in October 2024 The General's Mansion is located on the bank of Meilun Creek in Hualien. It was built in the 11th year of Showa (1936) during the Japanese colonial period. It is an official residence built of cypress wood with walls and an independent garden. This is the dormitory of Colonel Nakamura, the military commander of the Hualien region. The surrounding Japanese-style dormitories are the residences of officers of all classes. The neat and uniform buildings form a complete small residential area with a history of more than 90 years. It is said that the nearby residents did not know the identity of Colonel Nakamura at that time. They only knew that a high-ranking general lived here, so they called this place the Shogun's Mansion. Address: No. 6, Lane 622, Zhongzheng Road, Hualien City, Hualien County, Taiwan, China #HualienAttractions #100 Ways to Travel

Near our guesthouse, you can walk through the historical Japanese streets of 1936 Shogunate 🏮🏮 All the historical relics of that era are preserved✨ You might have been to Japan five times this year, but I still haven't planned to go🤣 Another weekend has arrived🎑🎎 The streets are still very quiet✨ There are hardly any earthquakes now, but we still need to take it slow, who knows how many months it will be before people come😅 I thought it would be like other famous attractions in Hualien such as the Chingxiu Temple or the nearby Prosecutor General's Lodge, which have💰, but in reality, it's free. In the evening, I went for a walk in the riverside park, and you can just walk into it, the old Shogunate street inside has cultural and creative coffee shops☕ and the previous Meilun gourmet curry🍲, all traditional pure Japanese architectural designs🏠🏠🏠 You can also set up a tent⛺ to enjoy a leisurely afternoon, bring the kids for a happy holiday experience😍😍 Now there is a hotel being demolished next door, you have to detour to get here🚙🚙 Next week the road should be directly accessible to the downtown area without detours😎😍