Taichung Martyrs' Shrine Introduction
The Taichung Martyrs' Shrine was originally the second-generation Taichung Shrine during the Japanese colonial period. In 1942, it was relocated from Xinfucheng (Taichung Park) to the Xin Gao Shuiyuan Park (now the site of the Taichung Martyrs' Shrine and Confucian Temple) and was upgraded to a National Treasure small shrine. After the retrocession of Taiwan in 1945, the Taichung Shrine was converted directly into the Taichung Martyrs' Shrine. The **Pailou** is a three-bay, four-column, seven-tiered concrete structure, topped with blue ceramic tiles. The plaque in the center reads "Martyrs' Shrine," while the sides feature the phrases "Cheng Ren" and "Qu Yi," serving as the grand entrance for visitors to the Martyrs' Shrine. The **Mountain Gate** is also covered with blue ceramic tiles, with mythical creatures adorning the ridgeline. The beams and rafters showcase Qing-style paintings. It features a deep red painted cypress wood main gate adorned with ninety-eight bronze nails and beast-head rings. The couplets on either side of the Mountain Gate read, "The great spirit penetrates the deity; great achievements build this shrine for eternity. The great name lingers in the universe; Cheng Ren and Qu Yi enjoy everlasting honor." The **Front Hall** has a roof covered with yellow ceramic tiles and is decorated with mythical figures and mythical creatures. The painted beams and rafters include designs of cannabis leaves, the Boxer movement, and sparrows. On the left and right sides, there are hexagonal pavilions, topped with yellow ceramic tiles, precious stupa, and mythical creatures. The plaque is adorned with powder-painted art, and the center beam features a design of passion flowers intertwined with auspicious patterns. Inside the pavilion, there are painted three-dimensional clouds, and the beams below are carved with cypress wood sparrows. The **Main Hall** mimics the northern palatial style of the Qing Dynasty with a concrete structure, topped with yellow ceramic tiles and featuring mythical figures on the ridgeline. It is complemented by deep red cypress wood diamond-shaped windows. Surrounding the hall are white concrete carved stone columns, adorned with dragon-headed auspicious vases. The altar is laid with dark red granite, and the hall's interior boasts marble flooring and red carpets, with granite slabs on the walls, enhancing its dignified and solemn atmosphere.
