Pingzhen Baozhong Temple (Yimin Temple) Introduction
Pružheng Temple, located in Pingzhen District, Taoyuan City, was built in the 56th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1791). It primarily enshrines the spirit of the Righteous Man (Yimin Yeh) and is also known as Yimin Pavilion. In the 7th year of the Xianfeng reign (1857), local residents raised funds to expand the structure and renamed it to Pružheng Temple. Since then, there have been further rebuilds and renovations, shaping the temple as we see it today. Most Yimin temples in Taiwan only have a memorial tablet for the Righteous Man, but Pružheng Temple features a statue of Yimin Yeh, which not only shows respect for the spirit but also hopes for believers to have a more concrete perception of the Yimin spirit. The main deity enshrined at Pružheng Temple is Yimin Yeh, along with other commonly worshipped deities in Hakka communities. Pružheng Temple serves as an important center of faith for the locality. In the early years, a pavilion and garden were established behind the temple, allowing many people to enjoy the garden's flowers and trees after paying their respects during the Lunar New Year. Yimin Yeh represents the Hakka ancestors who sacrificed their lives to protect their hometown, embodying the spirit of love for one's land. For the Hakka people, Yimin Yeh holds a special significance. With a history of over 200 years, Pružheng Temple attracts devotees from across the country, particularly from the Pingzhen, Zhongli, and Yangmei areas. During the Yimin Festival in the seventh month of the lunar calendar, residents from the thirteen major villages in Zhongli and Pingzhen actively participate in the celebrations and various rituals held at the temple. (Picture and text source: Pružheng Temple)
