Taiwan’s quirkiest church: The “Ark in the Green Sea” tucked away in Hualien’s alleys is a real eye-catcher

Reported and photographed by Cai Wenjun, Hualien

Have you ever wondered what Noah’s Ark from the Bible looked like? Nestled in the alleys of Xincheng Township, Hualien, the “Xincheng Catholic Church” resembles a ship in shape, with its exterior covered in lush green leaves and vines—earning it the nickname the “Green Noah’s Ark.” It’s also one of the most unique churches in Taiwan.

▲ The Xincheng Catholic Church is known as the Green Noah’s Ark.

▲ The remaining torii gate of the Xincheng Shrine.

▲ The Xincheng Catholic Church is surrounded by lush greenery, with stone lanterns left over from the shrine era still visible.

The Xincheng Catholic Church was originally the Xincheng Shrine. In 1896, after a Seediq woman from Taroko was tragically raped by Japanese soldiers stationed there, local tribespeople launched a collective raid on the Japanese military outpost in Xincheng, killing 23 Japanese soldiers. The shrine was later built by the Japanese to commemorate those who died. When the Japanese withdrew from Taiwan, locals tore down the shrine, leaving only the stone lanterns, torii gate, and stone monuments. The current Catholic church was constructed in 1964.

▲ As summer arrives, the church exterior becomes covered in greenery.

Similar to how Noah’s Ark in the Bible symbolizes the continuation of life, the Xincheng Catholic Church carries forward the legacy of Xincheng Township’s past. With its distinctive appearance, it has become a popular new photo spot in Hualien in recent years. The green vines wrapping around the church walls change with the seasons, and the most beautiful time is right now. Leaves cascade from the roof to the floor, adorning the Xincheng Catholic Church like an ark in a sea of green. If you’re looking to see one of Taiwan’s most unique churches, don’t miss this spot when you visit Hualien.

▲ The Xincheng Catholic Church looks like a giant ship from the side.

Xincheng Catholic Church
Address: No. 64, Bo’ai Road, Xincheng Township, Hualien County