Taiwan’s Version of the Wizard of Oz: Ark Church, Japanese Torii Gate, and Hidden Statue of the Virgin Mary

By MOOK Scenic Spots Christopher | Reported & Organized    Image Source / Hualien County Government

Taiwan, besides its abundant natural landscapes of beautiful mountains and waters, also features distinctive architecture and landscaping that make the island more diverse and fascinating. Hidden among the alleys of Xincheng Township in Hualien, there is a Catholic church that resembles Noah’s Ark. The exterior of the church is ship-shaped, with walls covered in vines, lush and green, exuding a wild, Wizard of Oz-like atmosphere. Since its former site was a Shinto shrine from the Japanese colonial period, the structure embodies two different faiths. As a result, you can also find a torii gate and stone lanterns here. The convergence of two different faith-based architectures through historical evolution allows Eastern and Western cultures to blend harmoniously, radiating a serene and tranquil energy.

Xincheng Catholic Church was built in 1956 on the original site of the Shinto shrine. The overall architectural beauty is considered the finest in eastern Taiwan. The memorial stone for the Xincheng Incident, which sparked the Taroko Battle, is still preserved in the garden. The long windows on both sides of the ship-shaped church are fitted with stained glass, neatly arranged in rows. At the back on the right is a baptismal font, originally a stone hand-washing basin used for cleansing hands and the spirit. The original main hall of the shrine has been converted into a chapel of the Virgin Mary, with a statue of the Virgin Mary enshrined in front. Several tall pine trees reach toward the sky, creating a very tranquil environment.