Things to Do at Cihu Mausoleum

Complete Guide to Cihu Mausoleum in Taoyuan

About Cihu Mausoleum

Standing as one of Taoyuan's most significant landmarks, Cihu Mausoleum represents important aspects of local history, culture, and community identity that continue to attract visitors seeking authentic regional experiences. Access fees and operational hours vary seasonally, with guided tours and additional services typically available for enhanced understanding of the site's historical significance and cultural importance to local residents and regional heritage. The landmark features distinctive architectural or natural characteristics that reflect regional building traditions, geographical influences, and historical events that shaped the area's development over time. Visit during optimal weather conditions and plan adequate time for thorough exploration, while respecting any cultural protocols or preservation guidelines that help maintain the site's integrity for future generations to experience and appreciate.

What to See & Do

The Mausoleum Hall

The main building houses Chiang's sarcophagus in a simple, solemn chamber. The changing of the guard ceremony happens hourly and is worth timing your visit around.

Sculpture Garden

An unexpectedly charming collection of bronze statues of Chiang from all over Taiwan, relocated here when they were removed from public spaces. It's like an outdoor museum of political art.

Cihu Lake

The small lake that gives the place its name offers peaceful walking paths and decent photo opportunities, especially when the morning mist rolls in.

Memorial Garden

Beautifully maintained traditional Chinese gardens with pavilions and stone bridges that provide quiet spots for contemplation away from other visitors.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays for maintenance.

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission. No advance booking required, though you might want to check for any special closures during national holidays.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (9-11 AM) tends to be quietest and offers the best light for photos. Weekdays are obviously less crowded than weekends.

Suggested Duration

Plan for about 1-2 hours if you want to see everything at a relaxed pace, including the sculpture garden and lake walk.

Getting There

Getting to Cihu actually requires a bit of planning since it's tucked away in the hills. Your best bet is taking a bus from Daxi - the 5096 or 5098 routes run regularly from Daxi Bus Station and take about 15 minutes. If you're coming from Taipei, take a bus to Daxi first (about an hour), then transfer. Having a car or scooter makes things much easier, and there's decent parking on-site. Some visitors combine this with a day trip to Daxi Old Street, which makes the journey feel more worthwhile.

Things to Do Nearby

Daxi Old Street
A charming historic street lined with traditional shophouses, famous for dried tofu and wooden crafts. About 15 minutes away by bus.

Shihmen Reservoir
Taiwan's third-largest reservoir offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and boat tours. The cherry blossoms here are genuinely impressive in spring.

Daxi Tea Factory
A restored Japanese-era tea factory that's now part museum, part working facility. Interesting if you're curious about Taiwan's tea industry.

Xiaowulai Waterfall
A dramatic three-tiered waterfall about 30 minutes drive away, with a glass skywalk that's popular with visitors who don't mind heights.

Tips & Advice

The sculpture garden is surprisingly photogenic - those bronze statues make for some interesting shots, especially in the late afternoon light.

Bring a light jacket even in summer, as it tends to be cooler and breezier up in the hills than you'd expect.

The hourly changing of the guard is at the top of each hour, so time your visit to the main hall accordingly if you want to see it.

Consider combining this with Daxi Old Street for a full day trip - the bus connections work well and you'll get both history and good food.