Beigang Chaotian Temple

Beigang Chaotian Temple

Commonly known as Beigang Mazu Temple or Tianhou Temple, Beigang Chaotian Temple is located at No. 178, Zhongshan Road, Beigang Town, Yunlin County, Taiwan. As a second-class historic site of the shrine category, it is primarily dedicated to Mazu. Originally built in the 33rd year of the Kangxi reign during the Qing Dynasty, it has a history of over 290 years. Due to its efficacious divine miracles, it has become the mother temple of more than 300 Mazu temples nationwide.

The beams, frameworks, and wood carvings inside Beigang Chaotian Temple are all crafted by master artisans. For example, the stone dragon king statues on the pillars of the stone railings outside the temple courtyard each have unique postures and exude a powerful and majestic aura. Throughout the entire temple, from the delicate expressions and movements of figures carved into window lattices to the grand and imposing coiling dragon pillars, every detail showcases exquisite craftsmanship. It is a perfect embodiment of the fusion between religious devotion and artistic refinement.

Beigang Chaotian Temple enjoys year-round incense offerings, especially during its annual grand event — the Beigang Mazu Welcoming Festival (on the 19th day of the third lunar month). During this time, every household in Beigang prepares elaborate feasts to welcome friends and relatives from afar. When the parade of deities begins at the temple entrance, the atmosphere becomes lively with the sounds of drums and gongs, drawing crowds that fill the streets and immerse the entire Beigang town in a rich religious ambiance.

Beigang Chaotian Temple

Must-visit reason: Taiwan’s most important Mazu temple