New Taipei City Martyrs' Shrine Introduction
The Martyrs' Shrine is a temple dedicated to the military personnel, police, and civilians who perished for the Republic of China and demonstrated significant loyalty and honorable deeds. Located next to the Huwei Fort in the Tamsui District, the shrine is surrounded by tall ancient trees and lush greenery. It is situated on the historic battlefield of the Huwei battle during the Sino-French War. After Japan occupied Taiwan, a shrine was built in 1939 to honor Emperor Meiji. After the restoration of Taiwan, due to long-term neglect, it fell into disrepair and became a ruin. In 1974, the New Taipei City Government dismantled it and rebuilt it on the original foundation while retaining the dimensions of the original shrine, but adopting a Chinese palace-style architecture, becoming the "New Taipei City Martyrs' Shrine," which honors many anti-Japanese martyrs. The shrine hall, surrounded by verdant ancient pines, exudes a simplicity and elegance. Standing within, one can feel a sense of leisure and tranquility. Leaning under the archway to listen to the sound of the pines and gazing at Guanyin Mountain is one of the eight scenic views of Tamsui known as "Pine Waves at the Martyrs' Shrine." Currently, the pine forest has long been lost due to pest infestations.
