Bade Sanyuan Temple Introduction
The Sanyuan Temple, known as "Bade Temple", is said to have been built in the 38th year of the Qianlong reign (1773) and was reconstructed in the 13th year of the Taisho era (1924). It is the oldest temple in the Bade District and an important center of faith. The temple faces south with its entrance facing north, and the main hall houses the gods of the Three Pristine Ones: Heaven, Earth, and Water. The name "Sanyuan" is derived from this deity arrangement. In the rear hall, the first floor is dedicated to the Heavenly Mother, the God of Time, and Wenchang Dijun, while the second floor's Lingxiao Treasure Hall is dedicated to the Jade Emperor. In addition to its historical value, the architecture itself boasts a high level of artistry. The wood carvings were crafted by the top craftsman of Taoyuan, Master Yeh Jin-wan, featuring dynamic dragon and tiger curves that exhibit grandeur. The stone carvings were created by Master Zhang Huo-guang, with lifelike representations of people and flora. Not to be missed are the exquisite decorations crafted by Master Chen Tian-qi, made from Cochin China pottery, showcasing elegantly poised ladies and armored warriors that are remarkably lifelike. The Sanyuan Temple, bustling with incense offerings, hosts a major local event each year on the second day of the second lunar month – the "Qigu" tradition (also known as "Begging for Turtles"). A giant peace turtle, weighing over a thousand kilograms and made of glutinous rice, is offered in the temple, symbolizing peace, blessings, and longevity. Devotees who cast sacred sticks to get a positive sign can purchase the rice cake turtle, symbolizing bringing good fortune back home.
