Fodor's Expert Review Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

This imposing monument to the founder of modern Taiwan, who died in April 1975, stands at the center of a vast public square. The 250-foot-high square building, clad in white marble and topped with an octagonal blue-tile roof, looks like it could have stood on the site for centuries. But, in fact, it was purpose-built and only completed in 1980. The 89 steps you must climb to reach the main entrance represent Chiang's age at the time of his death. The double doors here are 50 feet high and weigh an incredible 75 tons each. Inside, the hall is dominated by a large bronze seated statue of Chiang. There is also an exhibit on the lower level detailing his life and work. Outside, the changing of the guards on the door every hour is also worth a look.