The Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence Park
surrounded by the Fushan hills, is a 9.28-hectare park was named after
the late R.O.C. President Chiang Kai-shek, who lived on its premises in
1950.
It has well-preserved, enchanting scenic resources
both in the outer and inner gardens, the principal room, the greenhouse
for potted orchids, the rose garden, Victory Chapel, the New Orchid Pavilion
and the Ciyun Pavilion. The Chinese-style inner garden is landscaped with
a stream running under an artificial bridge, rock gardens, peculiarly shaped
rocks, and a red-painted Chinese summerhouse.
The European-style outer garden with carpet beds of
exuberant flowers, serves as a theme venue for the annual chrysanthemum
exhibitions. The rose garden features 200 species and 4,000-odd plants
with roses of varied hues and was Madame Chiang’s favourite location for
leisurely strolls.
The Chiang family was baptized in a Christian ceremony
and held worship services in the Victory Chapel. Tthe New Orchid Pavilion
(aka Longevity Pavilion) is a Chinese-style quadrangular structure built
in 1950 to host Mr. Chiang’s birthday celebrations; it also serves as a
venue for various orchid shows. On Mt. Fushan is the Ciyun Pavilion, a
two-story square summerhouse built in memory of Mr. Chiang’s mother.
After being opened to the public in 1996, the CKS Shilin
Residence Park has undergone many continued renovation projects to become
a scenic, recreational spot in downtown Taipei with enhanced quality and
quantity of services.