The most charming little village! 24 colorful murals bring festive vibes to the Wanjin Christmas Season.

▲ The Wanjin Christmas Season has become a top destination for the holiday. (Photo / Provided material, Pingtung County Government)

By Chen Tzu-yin / Staff Writer

In recent years, Pingtung County’s “Wanjin Christmas Season” has become a popular holiday attraction by blending local cultural features with art. On December 6th, the event will feature a lighting ceremony, with a 3D dove ground painting and 24 colorful murals scattered throughout the alleys. Additionally, as the Wanjin Basilica celebrates its 30th anniversary of being designated as a minor basilica, the site showcases the story of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection through 15 marble sculptures. The entire Wanjin Christmas Season is filled with artistic atmosphere.

 

▲ There are 24 mural artworks in Wanjin Village. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)

This year, the organizers once again commissioned 3D landscape artist Liu Rensheng to design a piece depicting a dove with roses emerging from an underground palace behind the basilica. Roses, one of the most symbolic flowers in Catholicism, represent the spreading of love and the gospel. Beside the 3D ground painting, there is also a group of marble sculptures. Father Hsu Ching-hsien noted that Catholicism has been present in Wanjin for 153 years. The number “153” holds special meaning in the Bible. It is said that after Jesus rose from the dead, he appeared by the sea one morning and asked fishermen for food. When they replied they had none, he instructed them to cast their nets on the right side of the boat, resulting in a large catch of 153 fish.

In addition to the Wanjin Basilica, the Wanjin community has integrated Catholic themes into the village by creating multiple murals, collectively named the “Shepherd’s Path,” which have recently gained popularity among travelers. Local villagers have also offered their walls for more murals to be painted. So far, there are 24 murals, primarily located along Wansheng Road and Wangu Road. Christmas is undoubtedly the best time to visit Wanjin Village.


▲ 15 marble sculptures depict the story of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection for humanity. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)