Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine and Cultural Park Introduction
Located on Huto 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 Shinto shrine from the Japanese occupation era in Taiwan. The architectural style features a blend of ancient Chinese Tang dynasty aesthetics, Japanese influences, and modern Taiwanese elements, constructed using top-quality Taiwanese cypress wood. In 1994, it was officially designated as a historical site by the city. Due to its unique historical and cultural value, it was chosen as a filming location for the movie "KANO," which allows audiences to deeply experience the memories of the 1930s. During the Japanese rule, approximately 200 shrines were built across Taiwan as part of the government’s assimilation policy, with Taoyuan Shrine constructed during this time. Positioned on a hillside, it offers a distant view of the southwestern Taoyuan urban area, with a sightline passing through the Cheng Huang Temple, symbolizing the protection of the people. Following Japan's defeat and the severance of diplomatic relations between Japan and Taiwan, many shrines faced demolition and reconstruction due to lack of worshippers, and the Taoyuan Shrine was renamed Taoyuan County Martyrs' Shrine in 1950. Its Tang-style architecture, along with the use of premium Taiwanese cypress wood, has been carefully maintained under the principles of historical and artistic preservation, making it the only complete shrine structure remaining outside Japan today. The current Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine and Cultural Park comprises a complete set of buildings, including the "Main Hall" which houses the personal spirit tablets, the "Worship Hall" for general worshippers, the "Office" for clergy or administration, and the "Purification Fountain" for visitors to wash their hands and rinse their mouths before worshipping. Additionally, the park features a torii gate, stone lanterns, Korean lions, bronze horse sculptures, and the pathway leading into the shrine. The construction materials include cypress and cedar, showcasing fine texture and retaining a complete large wooden structural system with meticulously designed joinery, highlighting the craftsmanship and the serene beauty of the shrine's cultural park. By following the natural terrain and ascending the steps beside Chenggong Road, one can see the straight pathway leading to the shrine, connecting the main gate and the worship hall, and extending all the way to Taoyuan Station. The surroundings of the shrine cultural park are lush with ancient pine and cypress trees, creating a tranquil environment, with greenery in front of the shrine enhancing its classic atmosphere. Each spring, the blooming cherry blossoms add a soft, romantic charm to the park; in autumn, visitors can enjoy the vibrant red maple leaves in the gardens and parking areas, showcasing different seasonal beauty throughout the year. Taking a moment to pause on the steps in front of the worship hall allows for a bird's-eye view of the entire shrine, surrounded by greenery, making it an ideal spot for photos and leisurely outings. (Some images are from the Taoyuan City Government Confucius Temple and Martyrs' Shrine Management Office)
