Drilling under the bridal sedan is surprisingly fun—discover the hidden “Starlight Tunnel” beneath the giant Mazu statue

▲ The giant Mazu statue is a major landmark on Matsu’s Nangan.

Reported and photographed by Reporter Chen Hanyin / Matsu

“Drilling under the bridal sedan” is a common religious ritual in Taiwanese folk belief, symbolizing prayers for blessings and safety. When you visit Matsu’s Nangan, you can’t miss the coolest way to do it in all of Taiwan. Visitors to Matsu will definitely make a pilgrimage to see the massive 28.8-meter-tall Mazu statue, but many don’t know there’s also a hidden tunnel beneath the statue called the “Menqian Mountain” Tunnel.

▲ The giant Mazu statue atop the hill resembles one sailing on a mighty boat.

▲ The Menqian Mountain passage is also known as the “Blessing Tunnel.”

▲ A cute, chibi-style Mazu greets visitors right at the tunnel entrance.

The Mazu statue’s viewing platform looks from afar like Mazu riding a ship to guard this land, and is also one of Nangan’s famous landmarks. Beneath it lies the Menqian Mountain Tunnel. As you walk inside, the stairs on both sides are brightly lit, resembling a starlit path guiding believers toward the statue. The most unique part? The exit is designed as a bridal sedan, and visitors must crawl through it to get out. This clever design brings delightful surprises while allowing visitors to pray for blessings and safety.

▲ The hidden Menqian Mountain Tunnel that few people know about.

▲ The tunnel shines brightly after renovation.

▲ The narrow tunnel entrance is a bridal sedan—you have to crawl through to exit.

The entire Mazu statue is made up of 365 pieces of granite and took over 10 years to build. Seeing the real thing in person is truly majestic. The wind rustles the wooden prayer cards hanging all over the giant boat-like viewing platform, creating sounds like ocean waves—a serene and peaceful atmosphere. With a 270-degree view, you can gaze at the breathtaking seascape where sky meets sea, making those extra steps up the stairs well worth it.

▲ The super-sized Mazu statue towers into the clouds.

▲ Countless blessing cards flutter in the wind.

▲ The Navy landing craft fleet and Matsu Tianhou Temple.

▲ After descending the stairs, stop by Matsu Tianhou Temple to pray for safety.