Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple

Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple

Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

“Hsinchu Chenghuang, Beigang Mazu.” In Taiwanese folk beliefs, Hsinchu Chenghuang is as renowned and powerful as Beigang Mazu. In fact, Hsinchu Chenghuang is the highest-ranking Chenghuang deity in the Taiwan-Penghu region, enjoying flourishing incense worship since the Qing Dynasty. The Chenghuang Temple itself has a history of over 250 years and is listed as a third-grade historic site.

Due to the remarkable efficacy of Chenghuang, coupled with Hsinchu being a place rich in culture and economic prosperity, the fame of Hsinchu Chenghuang has spread even wider. To this day, Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple remains an important center of faith for local residents, with worshippers from all over visiting year-round without interruption.

Upon entering the Three-Bay Hall from the temple courtyard, the hustle and bustle of the streets is immediately shut out. The dark-faced, long-bearded Chenghuang sits solemnly in the main hall, with a plaque hanging from the beam that reads “Govern Yin, Support Yang,” clearly indicating his authority. The plaque “Protector of Kinmen” was personally inscribed by Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty to reward the Chenghuang for repeatedly appearing to drive away invaders. The dimly lit interior of the temple is lined with statues of civil and military judges, along with various ferocious-looking subordinates, inspiring awe. A large iron abacus hangs from the beam, serving as a reminder that good and evil will ultimately be reckoned. The rear hall enshrines the gentle image of Lady Chenghuang, along with the First and Second Young Lords and the Goddess of Birth.

The roof is adorned with intricate caisson decorations, the brackets beneath the eaves shine in gold and colors, and the dragon pillars are finely carved. The stone lions in front of the Three-Bay Hall, carved from greenish limestone, feature bold, forceful lines yet wear gentle and amiable expressions. Additionally, there are stone windows intricately carved from solid rock slabs, and the layered caisson ceilings atop the Three-Bay Hall — all worth a closer look and appreciation.

On the 15th day of the 7th lunar month each year, the Chenghuang’s procession to relieve wandering souls and patrol the area to ensure peace is a major annual event in Hsinchu. Devotees who join the parade often bring the whole family, forming a long procession stretching for miles.

Transportation guide: Take bus routes 11, 23, 25, or 28 operated by Hsinchu Bus from in front of Hsinchu Railway Station and get off at Chenghuang Temple stop; or walk along Zhongzheng Road, turn at the roundabout onto Dongmen Street to arrive. The entire journey is about 700 meters.