Department of Cultural Affairs

Wistaria House

Wistaria House was originally built by the Japanese colonial government as living quarters for naval personnel. Originally located near houses for high-ranking officials and academics and situated next to a canal, it has always provided a quiet, elegant environment.

Following World War II, ROC Director-General of Customs Chou Te-wei took up residence in Wistaria House, where he delighted in hosting informal talks with well-known intellectuals of the day, initiating a trend of frank discussion during the restrictive era of martial law. In the 1980s, it was converted into Taiwan’s first teahouse dedicated to culture and the arts, continuing its spirit of criticism and becoming a venue where writers, artists and dissident figures would gather, speak and unveil new works. Wistaria House stands as a landmark of the arts and a symbol of the city’s concern for culture.