Yanshui Octagonal Building, Historic octagonal structure in Yanshuei District, Taiwan.
The Yanshui Octagonal Building is an eight-sided wooden structure with symmetrical sides that incorporates traditional Chinese architectural design. Its construction used imported Chinese Fir wood and bricks brought from mainland China.
The building was constructed in 1841 by the Ye family, who became wealthy through the sugar trade. After the Sino-Japanese War, it served as a residence for Prince Fushimi Sadanaru during the Japanese colonial period.
The building shows how Chinese building traditions mixed with local Taiwanese craftsmanship in its construction and design choices. Visitors can see this blend in the materials used and how artisans from different places worked together.
The building is open to visitors daily and can be explored either independently or with guided tours arranged through the local information center. Contact the center ahead of time to arrange a tour that suits your interests.
A stone marker in the courtyard documents the building's connection to the Japanese colonial period through its royal occupant. This marker serves as a physical reminder of how the site's purpose changed over time.
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