Chihou Church Introduction
Cijin, due to its important geographical location as a harbor export, is the area where Han Chinese first developed in Kaohsiung, boasting the oldest streets, temples, and schools in the city. After the Qing Dynasty's engagement with the Anglo-French allied forces in 1865, Takao Port (Kaohsiung Port) was opened for trade, and Scottish Presbyterian missionary Dr. Mackay came to this area to preach, establishing the Takao Presbyterian Church, which is the earliest and the first Protestant church in Taiwan. In 1935, the church was rebuilt in imitation of Roman architecture, with a quaint yellow-brown pebble exterior that stands as a tranquil and serene corner amidst the bustling Cijin market, and it is a shared memory for many people visiting Cijin. Due to the ravages of time, the structure of the old church was damaged, and the Cijin Church, which has been established for over a hundred years, was reconstructed in 2013, retaining the arches and window sills of the old church while adding an imitation Gothic spire, becoming a grand seven-story building. In response to the influx of tourists in Cijin, the Cijin Church also promotes tourism evangelism, opening its doors for visits, drinking water, and sanitation facilities, and offering various activities for people of all ages. Upon entering the quiet church, there is a model of the old church for reminiscence, allowing visitors to bathe in the religious atmosphere and enjoy a moment of peace and beauty.
