Not just a beautiful view of the church!

I left the B&B early in the morning and came to the place recommended by the owner. I happened to meet some nearby residents coming to worship in groups of two or three, so it was not easy to go into the church to take a look. But the beauty outside has already intoxicated me...

The European-style Catholic church⛪️ and the Japanese shrine’s torii⛩️ seem to span two countries. Being able to see both styles at the same time also makes you forget the regret of not being able to go in!

The church is covered with vines and decorated with stained glass windows. Noah's Ark Church is another name for it. It looks like a ship, just like the ship of salvation in the Bible. Walking around it felt like it wasn’t enough to appreciate its beauty. Looking at the Torii, stone lions, and stone lanterns, it felt like walking into a painting.

We met a lot of cats along the way, but they ignored me and instead leaned behind my boyfriend to ask for photos. We joked that it was because they were all wearing black. ! We also met a foreign pastor who rushed out to use the toilet. Along the way, he met many cats who wanted to be petted by him. He cutely apologized to each cat, saying that he was in a hurry and couldn't play with them. It was super heartwarming. Later, I followed the footsteps of a group of cats and found out that they had a stairwell which was their dormitory. There were bowls for everyone and a place to drink water. It was so happy!

Then walk further inside and you will see the former site of a Japanese shrine building and the stone lions in front of the shrine. Even though they are not as lifelike as modern sculptures, you can see that the historical traces and cultural value are still well preserved. The Last Virgin Mary Garden makes people feel peaceful. Even though I am not a Catholic, I can feel the peace and tranquility when I am around her.

Along the way, I met many nearby residents who slowly walked into the church and listened to the sacred music. Time and space seemed to freeze. I think this church will be my first stop next time I come to Hualien, and I must go in and take a look! #familytravel #travel #cooltravelexperience #flashmobhualien
#msay go #Hualien New Town #Hualien Catholic Church #Noah's Ark Church #Japanese Shrine #Torii

Post by Monica歲月靜好！ | Aug 16, 2022