Explore the Charm of Yanshui Town on a Light Rail Journey via Tainan Buses

Text & Photography / Jungle

Yanshui is one of Taiwan’s ancient towns, with Han Chinese settlers arriving long before the late Ming Dynasty when Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong’s father, Zheng Zhilong) came to Taiwan. Located at the estuaries of the Jishui River and Bajhang River, Yanshui’s Yuejin Harbor once welcomed sea vessels from mainland China. In its early days, the area was bustling with merchants, enjoying great prosperity. As the saying goes, “First Tainan, second Lukang, third Monga, fourth Yuejin,” which speaks to Yanshui’s former glory.

To make travel to Yanshui more convenient for tourists, the Tainan City Government has developed an efficient Greater Tainan Bus network and actively promotes light rail travel. Yanshui is located along the Brown Line of the Greater Tainan Bus system. Visitors can take the Brown Line bus from Xinying Railway Station to reach the Yanshui town, and enjoy free travel for the entire journey with an electronic ticket.

Yanshui isn’t very large, and its attractions are closely located, making it perfect for a light rail trip. About 250 meters from Yanshui Bus Stop, you’ll find Yanshui Catholic Church — arguably the most temple-like Catholic church in all of Taiwan. Not only does it feature Chinese palace-style architecture on the outside, but its interior also showcases biblical stories and Catholic saints in traditional Chinese style, which is quite unique. Like most temples in Taiwan, two bronze lions stand on either side of the church’s entrance gate, while the main hall is called the “Heaven Worship Hall.” The circular Chinese-style windows... create a radiant, colorful effect.

Stepping inside the Heaven Worship Hall, visitors are greeted by elaborately carved beams and painted pillars, resplendent and magnificent. Red pillars are inscribed with poetry, and looking up, the ceiling is covered with traditional Chinese patterns, totems, and murals. Beneath each window are paintings depicting the Stations of the Cross, with figures portrayed as having East Asian features and wearing ancient Chinese attire.

The mural at the front of the main hall is the highlight of the Yanshui Catholic Church visit. The three deities with East Asian faces at the top are not the Three Pure Ones, but rather the Holy Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit from Catholic doctrine. Below is the famous “Last Supper,” where the figures are depicted with the faces and clothing of ancient Chinese people instead of Western ones. Red candles are lit on the table, and chopsticks are used for eating, while goblets are used for drinking. The altar is adorned with a shrine, and at the very front stands a bronze cauldron resembling an incense burner. This uniquely charming Catholic church is definitely a must-visit spot on your trip to Yanshui.