Bade Sanyuan Temple Introduction
The San Yuan Palace, also known as "Ba De Da Miao," is said to have been built in the 38th year of Qianlong (1773) and was reconstructed in the 13th year of Taisho (1924). It is the oldest temple in the Bade District and an important center of faith. The temple faces south and is dedicated to the Three Pristine Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water, which is the origin of its name "San Yuan." The first floor of the rear hall enshrines the Queen of Heaven, the Taisui Star Lord, and the Wenchang Emperor, while the second floor of the rear hall, the Lingxiao Palace, is dedicated to the Jade Emperor. Besides its historical value, the architecture is also of notable artistic quality. The wooden carvings are crafted by Master Ye Jinwan, the top craftsman from Taoyuan, showcasing dynamic dragon and tiger curves that reflect strength and grandeur. The stone carvings come from the hands of Master Zhang Huoguang, featuring lifelike figures and floral patterns. The exquisite decorations created by the Chiayi ceramic master Chen Tianqi are also a highlight of the architecture, with beautifully portrayed graceful ladies and armored warriors. The San Yuan Palace, bustling with incense offerings, hosts the traditional "Qigu" activity (also known as the "Turtle Request") on the second day of the second lunar month each year. This significant local event features a giant peace turtle made of glutinous rice, weighing over a thousand kilograms, offered at the temple to symbolize the prayer for peace, fortune, and longevity. Faithful worshippers who cast the sacred divination blocks can take home the rice cake turtle, symbolizing the bringing of blessings back home.
