By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
In addition to its magnificent natural scenery, the Hualien and Taitung area also boasts many picturesque and Instagram-worthy attractions, featuring unique structures such as container homes, Japanese-style, and European-style buildings. While taking in the beautiful views, consider visiting these locations set against mountain and sea backdrops and plan a 2-day trip through Hualien and Taitung.
Qingxiu Temple (Photo / Qingxiu Temple)
1. Ji’an Qingxiu Temple – A Historic Japanese-Style Temple
Qingxiu Temple was established in 1917 and was initiated by a Japanese man named Kawabata Manji. It served multiple functions, including Japanese language education, a medical clinic, and funeral services. Originally dedicated to Fudō Myōō (the Immovable One), 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.
Qingxiu Temple follows traditional Japanese construction forms (Photo / Qingxiu Temple)
In 1997, it was designated as a county-level historic site and underwent restoration before reopening to the public. The temple adheres to traditional Japanese structural styles, mainly using a wooden frame system. Its roof features the traditional Japanese "treasure-vault" design, covered with copper sheets. The front entrance is a protruding veranda style. The interior is divided into worship and meditation areas, maintaining a simple layout while reflecting the classic Japanese architectural aesthetic.
Address: No. 345-1, Zhongxing Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County
Opening Hours: 8:30 – 17:00
Qingxiu Temple gives visitors the illusion of being in a Japanese temple (Photo provided by soniawu0529)
2. Container House Starbucks
Following the creation of the world’s only Starbucks container house concept store in Seattle, a container house Starbucks has also appeared on the open land outside Huilan Bay Happy Farm in Hualien. Several pure white container units are stacked and interlocked, with one featuring the Starbucks logo. The store is currently under construction.
Address: No. 11-10, Huazhong Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County (near Huilan Bay Happy Farm)
Container House Starbucks (Photo provided by nistaybnb)
(Photo provided by louis19820710)
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