Pingzhen Baozhong Temple (Martyrs' Shrine) Introduction
The Baozhong Temple in Pingzhen District, Taoyuan City was built in the 56th year of the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty (1791 AD) and is primarily dedicated to the deity Yimin Ye, also known as the Temple of Yimin. In the 7th year of the Xianfeng era (1857 AD), local residents raised funds to expand its scale and renamed it Baozhong Temple. It has undergone further construction and renovations since, resulting in the current appearance of the temple. Most Yimin Temples in Taiwan only honor the spirit of Yimin with a plaque, while the Pingzhen Baozhong Temple features a golden statue of Yimin Ye, expressing respect for the deity and hoping that worshippers have a more concrete understanding of the spirit of Yimin. The main deity worshipped at Baozhong Temple is Yimin Ye, and there are other commonly worshipped deities in Hakka communities inside the temple. Baozhong Temple is not only an important center of local faith but also, due to the establishment of a pavilion and garden behind the temple in its early years, many people visit the garden after worshipping during the Lunar New Year to admire the various flowers and trees. Yimin Ye represents the Hakka ancestors who sacrificed their lives to protect their homeland, embodying the Hakka spirit of love for their hometown and land, which holds a special meaning for the Hakka people. With a history of over 200 years, the temple attracts devotees nationwide, primarily from the Pingzhen, Zhongli, and Yangmei areas. Especially during the Yimin Festival in the seventh lunar month, residents from thirteen large villages in the Zhongli and Pingzhen areas enthusiastically participate in activities and various rituals at the temple. (Source: Pingzhen Baozhong Temple)
