A Grand Collection of Diverse Architectural Styles: A 2-Day Tour of Five Must-Visit Attractions in Hualien and Taitung

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The Hualien and Taitung region boasts not only magnificent natural landscapes but also numerous unique and highly photogenic spots, including container houses and buildings in distinct Japanese and European architectural styles. While admiring the scenery, consider visiting these sites backed by mountains and sea, and plan a two-day trip through Hualien and Taitung.

1. Ji’an Qingxiu Temple – A Historic Japanese-Style Temple
Qingxiu Temple was established in 1917 by a Japanese man named Kawabata Manji. It served multiple functions, including Japanese language classes, a medical clinic, and funeral services. Originally dedicated to Fudō Myōō as the main deity, after the retrocession it was renamed “Qingxiu Temple” and rededicated to Sakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin Bodhisattva. It later fell into disrepair due to years of neglect.

In 1997, it was designated as a county-level historical site and underwent restoration before reopening to the public. It adheres to traditional Japanese structural forms, with a wooden frame system as its primary structure. The roof is built in the Japanese hōgyō-zukuri style, covered with copper sheets. The front features an extended entrance. The spatial layout includes a worship hall and meditation rooms, maintaining a serene atmosphere while embodying the classic simplicity of Japanese architectural style. 

Address: No. 345-1, Zhongxing Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County
Opening Hours: 8:30 – 17:00

2. Container House Starbucks
Since Seattle created the world’s only container house concept Starbucks store, a container house Starbucks has also appeared on the open space outside Hualien’s Huiwan Bay Happy Farm. Several pure white container houses are stacked and arranged in an interlocking fashion, with one of them featuring the Starbucks logo. The store is currently still under construction. 

Address: No. 11-10, Huazhong Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County (near Huiwan Bay Happy Farm)