The only remaining Zhāijiào (Vegetarian Religion) architecture in northern Taiwan is in Tucheng District — accompanied by precious old trees, it's also a great spot for firefly watching in spring and summer.

Attention photography enthusiasts — an IG-worthy hidden gem in northern Taiwan awaits you at the historic site "Pǔ’ān Táng" (Hall of Universal Peace), located in Zǔtián Lǐ, Tucheng District, formerly known as "Māzǔ Tián." During the Japanese colonial period, the original settlers donated the Buddhist hall to serve as a village temple, which later became a center for teaching villagers literacy and hosting community activities. It is one of the few remaining Zhāijiào architectural sites in the Greater Taipei area.

The New Taipei City Tree Protection Committee has designated one nanmu tree and one longan tree under its protection. On January 2nd, a ceremony was held in Tucheng District to officially mark these precious trees, with representatives from the tree conservation group Hong Yukai and Abbess Li Yingjiao of Pǔ’ān Táng in attendance.

A group photo of the tree conservation activists and Abbess Li Yingjiao of Pǔ’ān Táng. (Provided by the New Taipei City Bureau of Urban Development)

The New Taipei City Government has surveyed streets with historical significance and local cultural characteristics. Trees meeting criteria such as trunk diameter, age, regional importance, and historical or research value have been included in the protected list of precious trees. By the end of 2017, the city had registered 1,042 protected trees.

The old nanmu tree (No. 1,032) grows next to the outer gate of Pǔ’ān Táng. Sunlight filtering through its canopy casts beautiful shadows on the gate, creating a scene that captivates photographers. (Provided by the New Taipei City Bureau of Urban Development)

The approved protected nanmu tree (No. 1,032) grows beside the outer gate of Pǔ’ān Táng. Sunlight filtering through its canopy casts beautiful shadows on the gate, making it a favorite among photographers. It is also a hidden gem for firefly watching in Tucheng during the spring-to-summer transition.

The longan tree (No. 1,033), with over 50 years of history, shares the enduring legacy of Pǔ’ān Táng. Together, they carry the memories and faith culture left by early settlers. Combined with the “Wùyuán Hiking Memorial Trail” of the Dànuǎn Jiān Mountain system, it forms an important part of the area’s natural heritage.

The Bureau of Agriculture stated that the registration and protection of these precious trees help preserve rare and unique natural resources. More importantly, they safeguard the memories cherished by the people of New Taipei City. The plaques not only have educational value but also bring Pǔ’ān Táng’s history back to life, sharing the stories behind it. By integrating religion, nature, and art, these efforts help highlight the region’s natural and cultural assets.

The longan tree (No. 1,033), with over 50 years of history, shares the enduring legacy of Pǔ’ān Táng. (Provided by the New Taipei City Bureau of Urban Development)