Bade Sanyuan Temple Introduction
The San Yuan Temple, commonly known as "Ba De Da Miao," is said to have been established in the 38th year of the Qianlong reign (1773 AD) and rebuilt in the 13th year of the Taisho era (1924 AD), making it the oldest temple in the Ba De District and an important center of faith. The temple entrance faces south, and the main hall is dedicated to the three deities of Heaven, Earth, and Water, known as the Three Officials, which is the origin of the name "San Yuan." The first floor of the back hall is dedicated to the Goddess of Heaven, the God of the Year, and the God of Literature, while the second floor houses the Ling Xiao Bao Dian, which is dedicated to the Jade Emperor. In addition to its historical value, the temple's architecture possesses a high level of artistic quality. The wood carvings were crafted by the master carpenter Ye Jin-wan from Taoyuan, with vivid dragon and tiger curves that demonstrate grandeur. The stone carvings were created by master Zhang Huo-guang, depicting lifelike figures and flora. The exquisite decorations crafted by the ceramic master Chen Tian-qi using the Cochin technique are also a notable architectural feature, with graceful ladies and armored generals portrayed in meticulous detail. The San Yuan Temple, known for its bustling incense offerings, hosts a traditional festival each year on the second day of the second lunar month called "Qi Gui" (also known as 'Request for Turtles'). This grand event features a giant peace turtle made of glutinous rice, weighing over a thousand kilograms, which is enshrined in the temple to symbolize prayers for safety, good fortune, and longevity. Faithful worshippers who cast the sacred divination blocks can purchase the rice cake turtle, symbolizing their wish to bring luck back home.
