New Taipei City Military Martyrs' Shrine (Weapons Park) Introduction
The Veterans' Shrine of New Taipei City, originally called the New Taipei City Military Cemetery, is located at the foot of Datong Mountain in Shulin District, New Taipei City, covering an area of 5.6 hectares. The shrine was completed in July 1959 and serves as a memorial for deceased military personnel and fallen veterans. Due to over twenty years of use, the original cemetery had become dilapidated, with its early structures deteriorating and its facilities no longer sufficient. In 1982, it was rebuilt at the same site, and it was reopened in March 1984. In June 1996, it was officially renamed the "Veterans' Shrine of New Taipei City," and after the administrative change from county to city, it kept this name. During the spring and autumn festivals, active military personnel who die in combat, or from illness, accidents, or veterans who have been discharged from service, can have their remains interred in this shrine at the request of their families. Memorial ceremonies for fallen soldiers from all walks of life in New Taipei City are held at the shrine on March 29 and September 3 each year. These ceremonies honor the deceased, inviting family members, friends, and representatives from various organizations to participate, with the mayor presiding over the ceremony alongside local officials and representatives, creating a solemn atmosphere. Built against the mountainside, the Shrine has recently become known as "Weapon Park," as the Ministry of National Defense has moved several decommissioned land and air military equipment, such as tanks, aircraft, and missiles, to the plaza beside the shrine for public viewing. "Weapon Park" is currently the largest exhibit of military equipment displayed by the Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan, featuring an impressive array of equipment from the army, navy, and air force. Among these exhibits is the world's first supersonic fighter jet, the TF-104G Starfighter, as well as anchors from the Cheng Chao warship and the Lu Shan warship, a K30 single barrel 5-inch cannon, M166 mountain artillery, anti-aircraft guns, and missiles. This equipment has played roles in protecting the country for decades and is largely well-preserved, allowing even those who are not enthusiasts to understand the function and historical significance of each weapon through on-site displays and signage. The TF-104G Starfighter showcased here is a representative of high-speed fighter jets from the 1960s, and the displayed model is a two-seat trainer variant, intended solely for training purposes. The shrine is located at the foot of Datong Mountain, and its outer loop trail connects with surrounding hiking trails. From the Dofu Trail, one can reach places like Triangle Peak, Qinglong Ridge, Datong Mountain, and Nanliao Fude Temple, making it a popular hiking destination for day trips from the city. During the pampas grass season from September to December, it attracts many people for outdoor activities and scenic views!
