Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The place in a few words

With its white façade and blue roof, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is impossible to miss. Built in 1980 to honour Taiwan's former leader, it overlooks the enormous Liberty Square, flanked by the National Theater and National Concert Hall. Yet the history behind it is complex: Chiang ruled Taiwan under an authoritarian regime, while the square later became a symbol of democratization, particularly during the 1990 student protests.

What we loved

We expected an enormous monument, but we had no idea just how vast the whole site would be! Liberty Square is so huge that it almost makes the memorial look small. We loved playing with perspective in our photos, and especially capturing a few kisses in the middle of the square. There was something moving about being two men kissing freely in a place that has become a symbol of Taiwanese democracy. It gave our visit a particularly personal meaning.

Our tip

Don't just photograph the memorial from outside! We recommend going in to explore the exhibitions about Chiang Kai-shek and Taiwan's political history. They help explain why he remains a controversial figure and how the country became a democracy. Admission to the memorial and permanent exhibitions is free; allow one to two hours to explore the building and Liberty Square.