Taiwan's Only Remaining Zhaijiao Architecture in Tucheng—Accompanied by Precious Ancient Trees and Firefly-Watching in Spring and Summer

Attention photography enthusiasts—An IG hidden gem in northern Taiwan awaits you! The historic structure "Pu'an Hall" is located in Zutian Village, Tucheng District, formerly known as "Mazu Tian." During the Japanese colonial period, the original landowners donated the Buddhist hall to serve as a village temple, turning it into a center that taught villagers to read and write while also functioning as a community gathering place. It is one of the only remaining Zhaijiao religious buildings in the Greater Taipei area.

The New Taipei City Tree Protection Committee has designated one nanmu tree and one longan tree under protection. On January 2, precious tree plaques were installed in Tucheng District, with members of the tree protection group Hong Yukai and Pu'an Hall director Li Yingjiao witnessing the event.

A group photo of the tree protection advocates and Pu'an Hall director (Photo provided by New Taipei City Department of Urban Development)

The New Taipei City Government has surveyed streets within its jurisdiction that feature historical significance and local cultural characteristics, striving to include trees that meet criteria such as trunk diameter, age, local distinctiveness, and historical and research value under its precious tree protection program. By the end of 2017, the number of registered protected trees had reached 1,042.

The ancient nanmu tree (No. 1,032) grows beside the outer mountain gate of Pu'an Hall. Sunlight filtering through its leaves casts a beautiful pattern on the gate, attracting photographers to pause and admire. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Department of Urban Development)

The reviewed and approved ancient nanmu tree (No. 1,032) grows beside the outer mountain gate of Pu'an Hall. Sunlight filtering through its leaves casts a beautiful pattern on the gate, attracting photographers to pause and admire. It is also a hidden firefly-watching gem in Tucheng during the spring-summer transition.

The longan tree (No. 1,033), which has a history of over 50 years, carries the enduring historical imprints of Pu'an Hall. Together, they preserve the memories and faith culture left by our ancestors. Combined with the "Wuyuan Hiking Memorial Trail" of the Danuan Mountain system, it forms an important part of natural heritage.

The Agriculture Bureau stated that by registering and protecting precious trees, rare and distinctive resources are preserved. Moreover, the memories cherished by New Taipei citizens can be well-kept. The plaques carry educational significance—not only reviving the history of Pu'an Hall and revealing the stories behind it, but also blending religion, nature, and art, making the area’s natural and cultural assets more visible.

The longan tree (No. 1,033), which has a history of over 50 years, carries the enduring historical imprints of Pu'an Hall. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Department of Urban Development)