Pingzhen Baozhong Temple (Yimin Temple) Introduction
The Baozhong Temple in Pingzhen District, Taoyuan City, was built in the 56th year of the Qianlong reign (1791 AD) and primarily enshrines the spirit of the righteous, also known as the Righteous Gentleman Pavilion. In the 7th year of the Xianfeng reign (1857 AD), local residents raised funds to expand the temple and renamed it Baozhong Temple. It has since undergone further renovations, leading to the current temple structure we see today. Most righteous temples in Taiwan only have a tablet for the righteous; however, the Baozhong Temple features a golden statue of the Righteous Gentleman, which not only signifies respect for the spirit but also aims to provide a more concrete visual representation of the righteous spirit for the believers. The main deity enshrined in the Baozhong Temple is the Righteous Gentleman, and the temple also houses other commonly worshipped deities in Hakka communities. Baozhong Temple is not only an important center of faith for the local community, but it also features a pavilion and garden that were established behind the temple years ago. Many visitors come to the temple for worship during the Lunar New Year and then enjoy the garden to see the various flowers and trees. The Righteous Gentleman represents the Hakka ancestors who sacrificed their lives to protect their homeland, embodying the Hakka spirit of love for their hometown. This gives the Righteous Gentleman a unique significance among Hakka people. With over 200 years of history, Baozhong Temple attracts a wide range of devotees from across the nation, particularly from Pingzhen, Zhongli, and Yangmei areas. Especially during the Righteous Gentleman Festival in the seventh month of the lunar calendar, people from the thirteen major villages in Zhongli and Pingzhen enthusiastically participate in activities and various rituals at the temple. (Image source: Pingzhen Baozhong Temple)
