Eternal Golden Castle
A preserved 1870s coastal fortress, the Eternal Golden Castle offers a glimpse into Taiwan's historical defense strategies and its role in past confli...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Eternal Golden Castle
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A preserved 1870s coastal fortress, the Eternal Golden Castle offers a glimpse into Taiwan's historical defense strategies and its role in past conflicts.
"Worth a visit if you're in the area sightseeing, but not necessarily worth visiting solely on its own."
☀️ Go when it's cooler
Mostly outdoors, so plan for heat. Early mornings or late afternoons are best.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal and soak in the historical atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Replica Cannons
Castle grounds
See various replica cannons, including a large, impressive 'Attack on Titan'-style one that can move.
Historical Significance
Throughout the site
Learn about its construction in the 1870s as a coastal defense fortress and its role in Taiwan's history.
Brick Tunnel Entrance
Main entrance
Explore the unique brick tunnel that serves as the primary entrance to the castle ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Go when it's cooler
Mostly outdoors, so plan for heat. Early mornings or late afternoons are best.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal and soak in the historical atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Not a full-day affair
Allow under an hour for a leisurely visit.
📸 Photo ops abound
The replica cannons and greenery offer picturesque moments.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Go when it's cooler
Mostly outdoors, so plan for heat. Early mornings or late afternoons are best.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal and soak in the historical atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Not a full-day affair
Allow under an hour for a leisurely visit.
📸 Photo ops abound
The replica cannons and greenery offer picturesque moments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Eternal Golden Castle historically significant and well-preserved, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's defensive past. While some note it's not as grand as expected and can be hot due to being mostly outdoors, its historical context and the interesting replica cannons make it a worthwhile, albeit brief, stop for those exploring the Anping area.
"I was expecting a bit more, from the name and reviews. It's also not a big as I thought. All outdoors so go when good weather. A walk around the castle wall is pleasant and interesting to see the replica cannons ( one of the smaller ones is genuine). Good that it has been preserved as historical."
Vincent Oliver
"Do not expect much from this site, it's good to bring food and have a picnic and feel the past Not as interesting as the fort in Anping.
Background
Built: 1874–1876
By: Qing Dynasty official Shen Baozhen (沈葆楨)
Purpose: Coastal defense fortress to protect Taiwan (then part of Qing China) from foreign naval threats, especially after the 1874 Japanese invasion of Taiwan (Mudan Incident).
Why it was built
In 1871, Ryukyuan sailors were killed by Paiwan aborigines in southern Taiwan.
Japan used this as a pretext to send troops in 1874 (Mudan Incident)—their first overseas military expedition.
Although Japan withdrew after negotiations (with Qing paying compensation), the incident exposed Taiwan’s vulnerability.
Shen Baozhen, sent by the Qing to strengthen Taiwan’s defense, ordered the construction of Eternal Golden Castle in Tainan, the first modern Western-style fortress in Taiwan.
It was equipped with imported cannons from Britain and Germany.
Japanese Connection
1. Trigger for Construction (1874)
Without the Japanese landing in southern Taiwan, the Qing likely would not have invested in such a strong coastal defense in Tainan.
So the castle itself is a direct response to Japan’s military expansionism.
2. First Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895)
After Qing China lost to Japan, the Treaty of Shimonoseki (1895) ceded Taiwan to Japan.
Local Taiwanese militias resisted under the short-lived Republic of Formosa, but Japanese forces advanced rapidly.
Eternal Golden Castle was used by Formosan resistance fighters to defend against the Japanese navy.
However, the outdated cannons and fortress design were no match for Japan’s modern military power.
By October 1895, the Japanese had taken Tainan, and the castle was surrendered.
3. During Japanese Colonial Rule (1895–1945)
Eternal Golden Castle lost its military importance.
The Japanese dismantled or sold many of the cannons, and the site was gradually abandoned.
It became more of a symbolic ruin rather than an active defense point."
Danielo Tanz
"Not as glamorous as you think it is. The swan ride no more when I was there. Not sure is it because of Typhoon or not. The greenary is not as green as the picutre few years back. Abit of dry brown with crack soil.
But if you like cannon, can go there. They got 3 type of cannons. 1 is the normal fake cannon. 2nd is the fake Big Cannon. 3rd one is like the Attack On Titan kind of cannon. Can move to left and right, of course I never move it. That is a Replica cannon but looks real. They got for photo. And with the greenary. Still looks pretty, people will still wow.
There is a park nearby too, they are link to the Navy Destroyer Ship. You can check it up if you still have time.
I would say the Eternal Golden Castle is a must to go."
just Wai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While walking around Tainan is possible, it's not always the most convenient. Many visitors opt for scooters, bikes, or taxis. The Eternal Golden Castle is often visited as part of a larger Tainan itinerary, including Anping Fort and the Tree House. +1
Yes, a day trip from Kaohsiung to Tainan is feasible. You can take a train to Tainan and then use local transport to reach the castle. One day might be enough to see the highlights, but spending a night allows for a more relaxed exploration.
Public transport options exist, but they might require transfers and can be time-consuming. Renting a scooter or using ride-sharing services can be more efficient for reaching the castle and other nearby attractions.
Many travelers combine visits to Eternal Golden Castle with other Anping district attractions like Anping Fort and the Tree House. Consider a scooter rental or a guided tour for efficient exploration. 
Yes, Eternal Golden Castle is close to other significant historical sites in the Anping district, including Anping Fort, Anping Tree House, and the old streets. It's often visited as part of a tour of these locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally low, making it an affordable historical site. Specific pricing can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or local tourist information for the most current rates.
The castle is typically open during daylight hours, but it's best to confirm the exact opening and closing times before your visit, as these can change seasonally or for special events.
Advance booking is usually not required for Eternal Golden Castle, as it's a historical site with relatively low visitor numbers. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
To avoid the midday heat and larger crowds, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended. This also provides better lighting for photography.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, check with local tourist information centers or your accommodation for any potential package deals or local passes that might include entry to historical sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the preserved ruins, see replica cannons (including a large, movable one), walk along the castle walls, and learn about its history through provided explanations. It's a place for a leisurely stroll and historical reflection. +1
Most visitors find that a leisurely visit takes less than an hour. It's not a large site, so it's ideal for combining with other attractions in the Anping district.
Children might enjoy seeing the replica cannons and the open spaces. However, it's primarily a historical ruin, so the engagement level for younger children might vary.
While official guided tours might not be readily available, the site provides historical explanations in English that offer insights into its past.
Built in the 1870s by the Qing Dynasty, it was Taiwan's first modern Western-style fortress, designed for coastal defense. It played a role in conflicts with Japan.
📸 📸 Photography
The replica cannons, especially the large movable one, offer unique photo opportunities. The brick tunnel entrance and the castle walls against the sky also make for great shots.
Late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' provide beautiful lighting for photos. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer people in your shots.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the site for personal use. However, always be respectful of the historical structures and other visitors.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to preserve the atmosphere and prevent any potential damage. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before attempting to fly a drone.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the cannons and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to manage expectations, as the site is a historical ruin rather than a playground. The visit is relatively short, typically under an hour, making it a good, manageable stop that won't exhaust younger children. Consider combining it with other, more interactive attractions in Tainan if you have a full day planned with kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider packing your own snacks or a picnic lunch, as food options directly at the site might be limited or pricier. Utilizing public transport as much as possible, or walking between nearby attractions if feasible, can also help keep costs down.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best times for photography are early mornings or late afternoons to capture softer light and avoid harsh midday sun. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create a beautiful atmosphere. While the site is not vast, the distinct elements like the cannons and the preserved structures provide ample subjects for creative shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Fortress Born of Conflict
The castle's history is deeply intertwined with Sino-Japanese relations. It was used by Formosan resistance fighters during the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) against the advancing Japanese navy. However, its defenses proved insufficient against Japan's superior military technology. After Taiwan was ceded to Japan, the castle lost its military significance, and many of its cannons were dismantled, leading to its gradual abandonment and transformation into a historical ruin.
Today, the preserved ruins offer a tangible link to this turbulent period. Visitors can explore the remnants of its defensive structures, including the distinctive brick tunnel entrance and the moat. The presence of replica cannons, some quite impressive and even movable, serves as a reminder of its original military function. While not as grand as some European castles, its historical context makes it a significant site for understanding Taiwan's past.
Navigating Tainan's Historical Landscape
+1Getting around Tainan, especially to these historical pockets, can be a consideration. While it's possible to navigate the city on foot, as some Reddit users have noted, it might not always be the most enjoyable or efficient method, especially in the heat.
When planning your visit, remember that the Eternal Golden Castle itself is not a sprawling complex. Most visitors spend less than an hour exploring its grounds. This makes it an ideal stop to complement other historical explorations in the area, allowing you to experience multiple facets of Tainan's rich heritage without feeling rushed.
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