Hualien Martyrs' Shrine

The termination of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Japan in 1972 led to the anti-Japanese sentiment in Taiwan. The local government decided to tear down all Japanese shrines built up during the Japanese Colonial Era. The one in Hualien was demolished and rebuilt into a northern Chinese-styled palace, currently known as Hualien Martyrs’ Shrine. As years went by, the original structure of the Japanese shrine disappeared, and what’s only left is a life-size bronze horse sculpture that continues to tell the stories.

Today, Hualien Martyrs’ Shrine honors the fallen soldiers and venerates the patriotic hero Zheng Cheng-gong (鄭成功), better known by his Hokkien honorific Koxinga (延平郡王). Most visitors come here not to pray but to appreciate the commanding views of downtown Hualien. Once reaching the lookout on top, you will be able to take in the distant mountains shrouded in a mist of magic. Day or night, the views are always spectacular, and the cool breeze up on the hill completes the perfection of this fine location.