The imposing façade of this Japanese colonial-era government building showcases a mix of architectural styles while the interior is equally impressive.

See where the President of the Taiwan (Republic of China) works by visiting this iconic historical national monument in downtown Taipei. Come on a weekday morning or during a monthly Open Day to take a guided tour. It’s a unique way to learn more about Taiwan’s turbulent history and present-day struggles.The grand building was designed in 1910 to house the Office of the Governor-General of Taiwan during the Japanese rule. The initial design was altered by the leaders in Tokyo to make it even bigger and stronger. There is an inner courtyard that connects the two-part building. Its central tower stands nearly 200 feet (60 meters tall) and is visible from afar.

The entire building was restored after it was bombed by Allied planes at the end of World War II and the façade, with design in the styles of Renaissance, Baroque and neoclassical, looks as new today.

A few years after the Japanese surrendered, and after losing the Chinese Civil War, the government of the Republic of China (ROC) relocated the nation's capital to Taipei. The building became the Presidential Office in 1950. The People's Republic of China, which doesn’t recognize Taiwan’s independence, simply calls it the “Taiwan leader's office building.”

Find the Presidential Office Building at the end of Ketagalan Boulevard, where it spans a whole city block in the Zhongzheng District of downtown Taipei. You can walk there from the Taipei Main Station.

The Presidential Office Building is partially open to the public on weekday mornings and once a month there is a full Open Day as well. Since it’s so close to the National Taiwan Museum, many city guides combine the two in their half-day tours. Bring your photo ID and register to enter the building at the intersection of Bo’ai Road and Baoqing Road.

Be aware that this section of Ketagalan Boulevard often attracts major protests as well as official parades, which take place right in front of the building. Check locally or consult the presidential office’s official website to see what is on during your stay.