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 underline its temporary character. When one knows the former president's taste for luxury, one may be surprised at this apparent modesty. Indeed, the Generalissimo has always expressed his intention to return to his native province of Zhejiang in mainland China. He rests in the dining room of this residence, whose surrounding nature reminded him of the landscapes of his childhood. The place was less and less frequented until the opening of a park right at the entrance, in which dozens of statues of Chiang (once found in every city) are gathered, made it a fashionable destination. Nostalgic and above all curious people are now crowding in. 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 one at the memorial. It is also possible to visit the premises. If you go a little further away from the lake, you can take a nice walk in the surrounding gardens, or simply walk around the lake, which has peaceful corners that are conducive to meditation.