Datianhou Temple: One of the starting points of Mazu belief in Taiwan

The streets of Tainan always hide unexpected history.
Walking in the alleys beside Chihkan Tower, I looked up and saw this building with red brick walls and ancient archways - the Grand Tianhou Temple.
It is not as lively as other Mazu temples, but it is more restrained and solemn.
And it was not until I stepped into it myself that I really realized that this is one of the starting points of Mazu belief in Taiwan.

👑 The first Mazu temple in Taiwan built by the emperor
The Grand Tianhou Temple was built in the 20th year of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty (1681). It was built by the Qing court to commemorate Mazu's blessing on Zheng Chenggong to recover Taiwan.
It is also the first Mazu temple in Taiwan built by the government and named "Tianhou", so it is named "Grand Tianhou Temple".

Don't underestimate these two words. "Tianhou" is a title used exclusively by the Qing court, symbolizing the highest honor of Mazu in official and folk beliefs.
In the Qing Dynasty, this temple belonged to the "official temple" level. Like the Sidian Wu Temple in Tainan, it is a dual landmark of history and faith.

⛩ The ancient architecture and amazing craftsmanship details
The scissor-sticking craftsmanship on the roof of the main hall is extremely gorgeous, and the flying dragon, phoenix and Mazu stories are vivid
The Mazu statue enshrined in the temple is solemn and kind, with Thousand-Li Eyes and Wind-Ears on both sides
The stone lions, stone pillars, wood carvings and caissons are all well preserved and are important specimens for studying Qing Dynasty architecture
Ancient plaques from past dynasties are hung on the walls of the temple, including historical plaques such as "Virtue Matches Heaven and Earth" and "Protecting the Country and Protecting the People"
The courtyard square is open and quiet, and the afternoon sun is especially good for taking pictures, and the atmosphere is calm

My favorite is the quiet corridor leading from the middle hall to the back hall. Walking in it will make people unconsciously slow down their pace,
and it feels that even the impetuousness in the heart will be washed away

🙏 The power of faith remains undiminished, and the incense is still burning.
This is not only a tourist attraction, but also an important place for locals to pray for peace and health.
Whether it is the peace incense at the beginning of the year or the birthday of Mazu in the third month of the lunar calendar, the temple will hold grand ceremonies and activities.

Many Tainan people say: "If you come to Chihkan Tower, you must come to the Mazu Temple to worship."
This is not just a habit, but also a culture deeply rooted in the blood.

📍【Information about the Grand Matsu Temple】
Location: No. 18, Lane 227, Section 2, Yongfu Road, West Central District, Tainan City (near Chihkan Tower)
Opening hours: 06:00–21:00 (open all year round)
Tickets: Free visits and worship
Recommended stay time: about 30–60 minutes
Recommended itinerary: Chihkan Tower, Sidian Wu Temple, Grand Matsu Temple Museum, Yongle Market, Guohua Street Snacks

⚠️ Reminder: This is a place of worship with strong incense. Remember to be solemn when entering and exiting, and do not use flash to take photos🙏

💭 Mazu is not only a sea god, but also a patron saint who has accompanied Taiwan for hundreds of years.
When I walked into the Grand Matsu Temple, I saw not only the statue of the god, but also the depth of history, the context of culture and people's desire for peace.
When you stand in front of the temple and look up, it is not just worshiping the gods, but more like saying to the land, "I'm here, I'm safe."

#5月好去处2025