Glimpse Of Hualien

OVERVIEW

Visit two traditional Buddhist temples and several unexpected attractions that reveal much about Hualien’s modern culture. Gang Tian is the city’s largest temple and is dedicated to Matsu, the benevolent goddess of the sea. The more modest Japanese-style ChingHsiou Temple holds historical artifacts that include dozens of small stone statues of Buddhist gods and a larger one of Acalanatha, a fearsome deity that protects the practice of Buddhism from all challengers. You will also see the serene Pine Garden residence that was built for a military official during the Japanese colonial rule. Hualien’s most unusual architectural treasure is a Starbucks café made from recycled shipping containers. The containers are stacked at random angles that are meant to reflect the branches of coffee trees. You will also stop in a unique shop that sells mochi, a pounded sticky rice cake that is a traditional sweet.

HIGHLIGHTS
• View architectural landmarks in Hualien that include two serene Buddhist temples.
• Visit the residence of a former colonial officer that perches atop the city’s highest point.
• Stop in a Starbucks café built from dozens of recycled shipping containers.
• Try a rice treat known as mochi at a shop that sells a variety of these sweet treats.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.