Bade Sanyuan Temple Introduction
In Bade, Taoyuan, there is a traditional temple with both historical and artistic value—the Bade San Yuan Temple. This place is not only a spiritual support for local residents but also a cultural attraction worth savoring for travelers. A visit to San Yuan Temple reveals that it is more than just a place of worship; it is a journey of exchange with history, art, and local customs. Originating as a gathering point for community beliefs, the San Yuan Temple, the oldest San Guan Da Di temple in Taoyuan, was established during the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong or Jiaqing period, with a history of over two hundred years. Originally centered around the Qiu and Lü families, it symbolizes the integration and harmony of various ethnic groups. The temple primarily worships San Guan Da Di, symbolizing peace and safety across the three realms of heaven, earth, and water, hence it is known as the "Baguazhu Great Temple." To this day, it remains a major faith center for residents within a ten-mile radius. With flourishing incense and collective deities, the temple enshrines not only San Guan Da Di but also Tian Shang Sheng Mu, Zhu Sheng Niang Niang, Tian Guan Wu Cai Shen, Fu De Zheng Shen, Tai Sui Xing Jun, Wen Chang Di Jun, and Yu Huang Da Di. Amidst the rising incense, the deities bless the faithful with their wishes. Devotees come to worship in sequence, adding a warm human touch to this ancient temple. The architectural beauty crafted with exquisite detail serves as a living textbook of traditional craftsmanship. San Yuan Temple itself is an artistic treasure trove, where master craftsman Yeh Jin-Wan's style is robust and powerful, while Zhang Huo-Guang’s figures are vividly expressive. The works of Chen Tian-Qi in traditional Jiao-Zhi pottery exude a classical charm. From the roof ridge carvings to the wall paintings, every corner is filled with the ingenuity of craftsmen. Visiting here feels like stepping into an open craft museum, with each corner deserving of careful observation. During the festival season, the temple's atmosphere is lively. Festivals and events occur year-round, including the celebration of the birthday of Yu Huang Da Di in the first month and a blessing ceremony for the sedan chair; the celebration of Tian Shang Sheng Mu's birthday in March; the Zhong Yuan Pu Du in July; and the celebration of the Water Guan Da Di's birthday in October. Each event is not just a ritual but an extension of local customs and cultural heritage, creating a lively and meaningful atmosphere. The "Pray for Tortoise" ceremony on the second day of the second lunar month is the most eye-catching festival activity, where over a thousand kilograms of giant glutinous rice tortoises are made for worship, symbolizing health and longevity. Those who draw lots successfully can take a tortoise home, symbolizing taking away blessings. The grand spectacle is a significant religious event in the locality.
