Jiazhang Temple

Jiazhang Temple

Jiazhang Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Jiazhang Temple

Jiazhang Temple was first built in the late Ming Dynasty, covering an area of over 30 acres, and is an important historical site in the Panjin region. Its origin is tied to a legend: “During the national crisis at the end of the Ming Dynasty, it was also the year when the Qing Dynasty began to rise. The two nations were at war along both banks of the Liao River, while downstream, merchant ships were anchored. At that time, gunfire raged and smoke filled the air; the Liao River’s waves churned wildly and dark clouds pressed down upon the earth, turning the once tranquil waters into a scene of turmoil. Merchant ships caught in this dangerous situation felt as if they had entered a trap. A Zhou family boatman prayed to the gods for protection, pledging that if he and his cargo could make it through safely, he would definitely build a temple to show his thanks. Suddenly, a divine flame came from afar and guided the boat to safe waters. Grateful for the divine protection, the boatman built ‘Jiazhang Temple.’ ‘Jiazhang’ means the helmsman or captain who steers the ship. Hence, Jiazhang Temple is the sailors’ temple. It was later officially named ‘Tiansheng Palace’ because it primarily enshrined the ‘Heavenly Empress Mother.’ The temple was destroyed during the Cultural Revolution.