the architectural design of uheiji nagano was selected in 1910. aspects of the design typical of japanese architects in taiwan's colonial period include a facade facing east and a creative blend of traditional european elements (renaissance, baroque and neoclassical). plans were submitted to tokyo where revisions were made to nagano's original design. tokyo authorities increased the height of the initial six-story central tower to 11 stories and made defensive improvements to the defense and corner towers. construction began in 1 june 1912 and was completed in 31 march 1919 at a cost of 2.8 million japanese yen. undoubtedly, it became one of the best-known masterpieces during the period of japanese rule of taiwan after the construction finished.