Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine and Cultural Park Introduction
Located on Hute Mountain in Taoyuan City, the Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine was completed in 1938 and was originally built as the "Taoyuan Shrine" by the Japanese. It is the most well-preserved shrine from the Japanese colonial period in Taiwan, with an architectural style that merges ancient Chinese Tang dynasty, Japanese, and modern Taiwanese influences. Constructed from high-quality Taiwan cypress wood, it was officially designated as a municipal historic site in 1994. Due to its unique historical and cultural value, it was chosen as a filming location for the movie "KANO," allowing audiences to deeply feel the memories of the 1930s. During the Japanese colonial period, Japan promoted the assimilation movement in Taiwan, leading to the construction of about 200 shrines across the island, including the Taoyuan Shrine. It was strategically built on a hill, allowing for a distant view of Taoyuan City to the southwest, closely aligned with the Kaizhang Shengwang Temple in the city center, symbolizing the protection of the people. With Japan's defeat and the severance of Taiwan-Japan relations, most shrines faced demolition or reconstruction due to lack of worshippers. The Taoyuan Shrine was renamed as the Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine in 1950. Its Tang-style architecture, along with the use of premium Taiwan cypress wood, has been meticulously maintained under the premise of protecting its cultural and artistic significance, making it the only complete shrine building preserved outside Taiwan and Japan. The current Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine and Cultural Park features a complete set of buildings, including the "Main Hall," which houses individual altars; the "Worship Hall," where the general public can pay respect; the "Office," for priests or management staff; and the "Temizuya," for visitors to wash their hands and gargle before entering the shrine. Additionally, there are facilities such as torii gates, stone lanterns, Korean dogs sculptures, and a shrine approach path. The building materials used include cypress and cedar wood, which have a fine texture, combined with a well-preserved wooden structural system. The rigorous construction method highlights the artisans' ingenuity and enhances the solemn and simple beauty of the cultural park. By following the terrain and ascending the steps beside Chenggong Road, one can see the straight path leading into the shrine area, connecting the main gate and worship hall and stretching all the way to Taoyuan Station. The surroundings of the cultural park are filled with ancient cypress and pine trees, creating a serene environment. In the early spring, when cherry blossoms bloom, the romantic pink petals add a delicate ambiance to the simple atmosphere of the shrine area. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the foliage around the garden and parking lot, showcasing different seasonal scenery throughout the year. If one pauses on the steps platform in front of the worship hall, they can overlook the entire shrine site, feeling the tranquility surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy nature. (Partial image source: Taoyuan City Government Confucius Temple and Martyrs' Shrine Joint Management Office)
