The Old British Consulate

In 1858, after the Qing government opened the ports of Anping (Tainan) and Tamsui for trade, cities such as Jilong (Keelung) and Takow (Kaohsiung). However, just a few months later, in February 1865, it was upgraded to become the first British consulate in Taiwan.

The consular building is located on the top of the hill overlooking the port, while the consular office is located at the bottom of the hill to be close to Customs, so it is easier to do business in consular services and trade.

Today, the interior of the “Former British Consulate in Takao” is divided into four main zones that display historical documents, photographs and objects from the past, a relaxation area that includes a dining room, and a studio. and bedrooms, and a basement used as storage, all in the style of a model British building. There is also a trail that connects the Consulate building at the top of the hill with the office building by the harbor.

Today, it has become the oldest preserved Western building in Taiwan. It is a structure designed by a British engineer and built by Chinese craftsmen, and it is the most significant ancient building of modern Chinese history with charming proportions. sleek and elegant.

This is a Baroque architectural style of the Renaissance period. With semicircular arch details arranged in harmony with large wall columns, it not only creates a beautiful design style but also reinforces the dynamics. Among the Western-style buildings in Taiwan, the former British Consulate is an excellent demonstration of engineering, style, historical architectural research and conservation value. .

The building was built with dual functions, one is an administrative function and the other is a residential function, and its style was harmoniously combined to serve the needs of the officials of the time. This is also a typical illustration of modern Chinese and Western cultures, and is also the first official consulate built by foreigners in Taiwan. The arrival of the British consulate at that time opened the door to the development of Western architecture for Taiwan in the future.

Today, after being included as one of the historical sites that need to be preserved, this place has been developed and built more restaurants and cafes to serve tourists when visiting the Consulate. Old English shop.

In addition, visitors can not only enjoy the panoramic view of Sizihwan, the sunset at Kaohsiung's First Harbor or the beautiful scenery of the port city when coming here, but also many interesting attractions nearby, such as such as Shihba Wanggong Temple, Shaochuantou Park. So don't miss this one-of-a-kind British style experience for your Kaohsiung travel.

Open time:

• Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00AM – 07:00PM
• Sunday: 09:00AM – 07:00PM (closed every Monday)