Office of the President 總統府

A rare glimpse inside ruling life
Word to the wise: Guided tours in English and Chinese are held weekday afternoons. Visitors must register by bringing their passports to the security gate before 11.30am the day they wish to take the hour-long tour.

In most Asian countries, the ruling offices are strictly off-limits, which makes the fact this Taipei headquarters is open to the public a rarity. While many visitors are happy to take photos out front, Chinese history buffs will appreciate the up-close and personal tour of the office, meeting rooms and halls.
Designed by Japanese architect Uheiji Nagano during Japanese rule, the ornate building was restored after it was bombed during World War II, and is elaborately decorated every October to commemorate Taiwan's national holiday on October 10. The street in front is usually the site of protests, as well as presidential campaign rallies, though you won't catch either on a day-to-day basis.