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๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ Taiwan /Culture & Society

Giant Red Cross Becomes Taiwan Mountain's New Guiding Light

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • A giant red cross, visible from 20 kilometers away, has become a new landmark on Taiwan's North Dawu Mountain.
  • The cross, standing 12.1 meters tall, was built on a former NCC monitoring station site to serve as a spiritual symbol and tourist attraction.
  • The landmark, officially activated in December 2021, is accessible via four hiking trails and is illuminated at night.

A towering red cross, a beacon visible for miles, has emerged as a striking new landmark on Taiwan's North Dawu Mountain. The 12.1-meter-tall structure, roughly the height of an eight-story building, illuminates the night sky and has captivated residents and visitors alike, sparking curiosity about its origins.

For the tribal residents, religion is not just a spiritual comfort but an important part of life, so for many years they have hoped to establish a large cross landmark in their hometown.

โ€” Luo Qing-renThe Majia Township Mayor explained the significance of the cross to the local indigenous communities.

Located atop Lidingshan mountain, the cross was erected on the site of a decommissioned NCC monitoring station. The project was spearheaded by the Majia Township Office, aiming to fulfill a long-held desire by the predominantly Christian Paiwan and Rukai communities for a significant religious landmark. It symbolizes faith and serves as a guiding light, particularly for those returning home.

The construction faced challenges related to land use and power supply. However, the availability of an existing power source and accessible trails at the former monitoring station site significantly eased the process. The cross was officially inaugurated in December 2021 after a lighting ceremony.

This cross not only symbolizes faith but also represents 'the direction of home'.

โ€” Luo Qing-renThe Majia Township Mayor described the dual meaning of the cross for the local residents.

Now a prominent feature visible from highways and distant towns, the cross has become a symbol of guidance and a potential draw for tourism. Lidingshan, standing at 659 meters, offers panoramic views of the Pingtung Plain and is reachable via four distinct hiking trails, catering to various fitness levels, from easy family walks to challenging climbs.

Like God (Jesus) is protecting us.

โ€” Tribal residentsLocal residents described their feeling when looking at the cross from their village.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.