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During the Qianlong reign, Lin Pinhou and his father Lin Yingyin came to Taiwan from Zhangzhou of Fujian for commerce. Later, the Lin family moved to Daxi due to fighting between people from the Zhangzhou and Quanzhou areas. In the 27th year of Emperor Daoguang (1847), the "Benji" brand of Lin Pinhou's third son Lin Guohua, and the "Yuanji" brand of the fifth son Lin Guafang merged into one entity known as "Lin Benyuan". The two brothers ran the business together. During the years of Emperor Xianfeng, construction of the Lin Benyuan Family Mansion and Garden began in Banquiao. All construction was completed in the 9th year of Emperor Guangxu (1893). In 1935, the Japanese held the first exhibition in Taiwan and borrowed the mansion as part of the exhibition venue. The Laiqing Pavilion in the garden is a two-storied reception hall where guests were received. On the second floor, all four sides are dotted with windows. With its elaborate gable roof and multiple layers of eaves the pavilion is considered the most beautiful piece of architecture in the garden. In front of the pavilion is a stage adorned with a hanging plaque which reads, "unfolding the door to savor the performance with laughter ". The House of Fragrant Blossoms is a place to gaze upon the flowers delicately arranged between the corridors. The Pavilion of Moon Reflection in the Ripples is a building combined by two squared pavilions surrounded by water. Dingjing Hall is the banquet hall and the biggest building in the garden. The study room “Fang-Jian Room” shared by the brothers Lin Weirang and Lin Weiyuang is the most secluded and elegant spot within the garden. There is a square pond in front of the study, and all around it are stages for performances, decks for spectators, artificial hills, and small bridges. One can enjoy the performances from across the pond while leaning on the railings in front of the study.