ByMOOKCompiled and reported by the Scenic Spots Family Editorial Department
Since ancient times, sacred beasts have held a significant place in historical texts. Whether in religious beliefs or folklore, many are closely associated with these mythical creatures. People believe that these highly spiritual and magical beings carry different symbolic meanings and origins. Tainan is home to many famous century-old historic temples and old streets and alleys, hiding numerous divine beasts that attract good luck and ward off misfortune. Some are tucked away under eaves, while others are embodied in pillars or walls—you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled to spot them. Beyond the sacred beasts in temples, natural wonders such as black-faced spoonbills and fiddler crabs, as well as sword-lion statues believed to bring safety and precious fossils in museums, are also part of Tainan’s rich cultural tapestry. These not only document the city’s history but also enrich its tourism offerings.
Tainan’s rich history and culture enhance the diversity of its tourism resources (Image source / Tainan Tourism Bureau)
The Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau stated that to help visitors explore Tainan and find good fortune, they specially invited freelance illustrator Croter to plan the “Guardian Sacred Beasts” hand-drawn themed map from his unique perspective, which was launched in December this year. The map includes the “Tainan Storytelling — In Search of the Dragon’s Sons” at historic temples, “Hidden Sacred Beasts” at landmark buildings, cultural sacred beasts such as sword lions and pigeon racing, “Ancient Sacred Beasts” in the Zuozhen Fossil Museum, and “Natural Sacred Beasts” such as black-faced spoonbills, water rails, and fireflies.
The hand-drawn booklet offers a more approachable explanation (Image source / Tainan Tourism Bureau)
Designer Croter, originally from Yunlin and raised in Taipei, has been engaged in independent creation and design since 2003. He excels in various illustration styles and loves surreal imagery, often using satirical humor to reflect on life and social realities. His illustrations have been serialized in weekly magazines and featured in major newspapers and magazines. This “Guardian Sacred Beasts” map is illustrated by Croter, presenting the content through myth-inspired artwork that showcases the diverse sacred beasts of Greater Tainan at a glance. If you’re a fan of Croter’s style, be sure to collect this sacred beast map and embark on a Tainan sacred beast adventure to discover the meanings behind each creature, enjoy their charm, and uncover a different side of Tainan.
This “Guardian Sacred Beasts” map presents the content through myth-inspired artwork (Image source / Tainan Tourism Bureau)
The illustrator’s hand-drawn map booklet “Guardian Sacred Beasts” has been available for free collection starting December 2 (Friday). The public is welcome to visit any Tainan City tourist service center, Yonghua and Minzhi Municipal Joint Service Centers to pick one up. Quantities are limited, and the map can also be downloaded from the “Tainan Tourism Website” (http://www.twtainan.net/).
A comprehensive look at the various sacred beasts of Greater Tainan (Image source / Tainan Tourism Bureau)
Discover a different side of Tainan through them (Image source / Tainan Tourism Bureau)
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