Things to do in Shilin, Taipei: The Best Sights & Landmarks

When immigrants came to Taipei from Quanzhou in Fujian, China, they brought their patron saint "Kaizhang Sheng Wang." The statue of the god was brought to Taipei about 200 years ago by Huang Chengqing. It is said that when the god was taken to Zhishan, miraculous events occurred. Huiji Temple was built in dedication to the god at Zishanyan in 1752. Later, when Guanyin was worshiped here as well, the temple was also known as Zhishanyan Temple. At the temple is an ink brush stand that is said to confer divine blessing to all who touch it. Many parents bring their children here to touch the stand, hoping it will help them pass their school examinations.

The "Lin Yu-tang House" sits at the base of Yangminshan. It was constructed in 1966 and was designed by Lin himself. It served as his residence for the last ten years of his life. This structure represents the Chinese "shiheyuan" style combined with Spanish architectural influences, incorporating eastern and western styles as well as fusing modern and classic beauty. The indigo colored glaze complements the white walls and the addition of the purple latticework gives it the elegance of refined art. Entering through the western style door and passing through to the veranda, one can see the sunlit garden in which the silhouette of the Spanish style spiral pillar stretches as the warm sunlight lengthens its shadow. On October 1, 2005 , Soochow University accepted the Department of Cultural Affairs' commission to manage Lin's residence and as the research place for the study of Lin's works.