CIHU (LAC DE LA BONTE)

This is the place where Chiang Kai-shek is buried. Unlike the memorial in Taipei, Cihu's mausoleum, oriented according to the principles of feng shui, is very simple, no doubt to emphasize its temporary nature. Given the former president's taste for luxury, this apparent modesty may come as a surprise. Indeed, the Generalissimo had always stated his intention to return to his native province of Zhejiang in mainland China. He was laid to rest in the dining room of this residence, whose natural surroundings reminded him of the landscapes of his childhood. The place was less and less frequented until the opening of a park just outside the entrance, in which dozens of statues bearing Chiang's effigy (once found in every city) are gathered, made it a fashionable destination. Nostalgic and, above all, curious visitors now flock here. Ironically, there are also an impressive number of Chinese tourists who come to pay homage to the man who was once their leader, but also the sworn enemy of a certain Mao Zedong... The changing of the guard in front of the house is worth a look if you missed the memorial. You can also visit the site. A little further away from the lake, you can take a stroll through the surrounding gardens, which offer peaceful corners for meditation. Far from the hustle and bustle, these gardens offer a true interlude of tranquillity, where history and nature meet in harmony.