Zhang Gong Temple (Jin'an Temple) Introduction
Jin'an Temple, dedicated to the deity originally named Zhang, is also commonly known as Zhang Gong Temple. This is the oldest temple in Su'ao, Taiwan. Zhang Gong is the local guardian deity from Quanzhou, Fujian, which indirectly highlights that the people from Quanzhou were among the earliest Han settlers in Su'ao. The pioneers from Quanzhou, looking to settle overseas, asked Zhang Gong to accompany them on their voyage to drive away the miasma of the wilderness, leading to the establishment of the temple in the vicinity of Su'ao, specifically in the area of Bai Mi Weng and Yong Chun. With diligent development, vast plains were cultivated around Sanxing Dapu, which later attracted nearly a hundred Quanzhou descendants to migrate to Yilan. Jin'an Temple also holds an old indigo-dyed cloth featuring the names of twenty-six pioneering figures, along with preserved memorial inscriptions, which hold significant historical meaning. There's an amusing story associated with Jin'an Temple: while typically the stone lions flanking the temple entrance are positioned "male on the left and female on the right," at Jin'an Temple, it’s the opposite. Moreover, many of the local businesses in front of the temple are run by women, which inspired a local legend known as "Surprising Some Street," adding to the area's charm. In the past, during the Zhang Gong annual celebration (on the 8th day of the 3rd lunar month), the temple would host grand activities to welcome the deity and pray for peace in the region, marking one of Su'ao's significant events. In recent years, Jin'an Temple has begun to organize "Banqiao Culture" activities to connect with local sentiments and restore folk traditions, inviting performing troupes to entertain, creating a lively atmosphere.
