Pingzhen Baozhong Shrine (Yimin Temple) Introduction
Pizhong Temple, located in Pingzhen District of Taoyuan City, was built in the 56th year of the Qianlong reign (1791 AD) and primarily honors the Yimin (righteous people), also known as Yimin Pavilion. In the 7th year of the Xianfeng reign (1857 AD), local people raised funds to expand the temple, and it was renamed Pizhong Temple. Since then, it has undergone further constructions and renovations to take on its current form. Most Yimin temples in Taiwan only have a tablet for the Yimin, but Pizhong Temple features a statue of Yimin, signifying respect for them and providing devotees with a more tangible concept of the spirit of Yimin. The main deity worshiped at Pizhong Temple is Yimin, and other common deities in Hakka villages are also enshrined within the temple. This temple serves as an important local center of faith. In the early years, a pavilion and garden were established behind the temple, where many people, after paying their respects during the Lunar New Year, would stroll through the garden to admire the various flowers and trees. The Yimin represents Hakka ancestors who sacrificed their lives to protect their homeland, embodying the spirit of love for their land among the Hakka people, which creates a unique emotion towards Yimin. Pizhong Temple has a history of over two hundred years and attracts devotees from across the country, especially from the Pingzhen, Zhongli, and Yangmei areas. During the Yimin Festival in the seventh month of the lunar calendar, people from thirteen major villages in Zhongli and Pingzhen actively participate in various activities and ceremonies at the temple. (Source of images and text: Pizhong Temple)
