The Prefectural City God Temple of Taiwan’s First County

　　The Prefectural City God Temple of Taiwan’s First County was an official government-sponsored City God Temple established during the Qing Dynasty rule in Taiwan, corresponding to Taiwan County. At that time, it was called the “Taiwan County City God Temple,” and is located in West Central District, Tainan City. Although its history can be traced back to the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, the current temple structure was rebuilt in January 1980 after World War II, making it one of Taiwan’s most significant City God Temples.

　　The Prefectural City God Temple of Taiwan’s First County was initially constructed with funds donated by Zhang Hong, the magistrate of Taiwan County. Its original location was next to the county office in Dong’anfang. Later, in the 15th year of the Qianlong reign (1750), Magistrate Fang Bangji and County Magistrate Lu Dingmei moved the temple to the right side of Chihkan Tower in Zhenbei Fang. However, it was moved again the following year to the north of the county office. Over time, the temple underwent multiple renovations and expansions. After World War II, the temple was renovated and completed in April 1966 (the 55th year of the Republic of China), and a Prayer for Peace and Taoist Ritual Festival was held. Two years later, the Kṣitigarbha Hall was added. However, due to the decay of the temple beams, fundraising for reconstruction began in September 1978 (the 67th year of the Republic of China), and the project was finally completed in January 1980 (the 69th year of the Republic of China), resulting in its current appearance.

　　The current City God Temple is a single-courtyard, three-bay structure. The lintel above the entrance is inscribed with the phrase “So You Have Come.” The main hall’s shrine enshrines the “Honorable Protective Lord City God Deity,” with attendant civil and martial judges and the Seventh and Eighth Lords on either side. Many worshippers visit daily to offer incense.

　　Tai Xianyi City God Temple Reason to Visit: One of Taiwan’s most significant City God Temples