Amid the bustle of the city is a traditional Japanese park, a memorial to one of Taiwan’s most important historical events.

Taipei 228 Memorial Park is a tranquil Japanese-style park in the center of the bustling city. Dedicated to the historic events of February 28, 1947, the park grounds are home to the Taipei 228 Memorial Museum, the 228 Memorial Monument and the National Memorial Museum.

With its landscaped gardens, arched bridges and open grassy areas, 228 Peace Memorial Park may seem like any other city park however, it commemorates a solemn history. At the end of World War II, Republic of China government officials violently repressed the Taiwanese people. This aggression sparked a revolt, and on February 28, 1947, martial law was declared. Over the course of a few months, thousands of Taiwanese people were killed. In 1995, the president publicly acknowledged the incident. Visit the park, renamed the Peace Park, to remember those who suffered or died during that tumultuous time.

Enjoy one of the oldest parks in Taipei, where the landscaped gardens are reminders of the Japanese governance of Taiwan. Meander along the paths and unwind under the shade of carefully tended trees or beside rock ponds. Rest on a seat with a book, people-watch or admire the shrines and pavilions. Relax in the children’s park with its large playground, or visit the farmers market on the weekend. In the morning, join some of the locals who practice tai chi on the grass.

Inside the park find the 228 Memorial, an impressive sculpture consisting of a steeple in the center surrounded by three large, tilted cubes. Follow the history of the events of 1947 at the 228 Memorial Museum, which is located in the former Kuomintang radio station. This historical building is where government officials controlled the news about what was happening. At the north end of the park is the National Taiwan Museum, which has exhibitions of Taiwan’s flora and fauna.

The park is open daily and is located on a city block between Gongyuan Road, Xiangyang Road, Huaining Road and Ketagalan Boulevard. To get there, catch the MRT train to NTU Hospital Station. If driving, park at the NTU Hospital parking lot or near the park.