Zhongli Renhai Temple Introduction
The Jiang Hai Temple in Zhongli, awarded fourth place by the Ministry of the Interior in Taiwan's Hundred Religious Sights, was established in the sixth year of the Daoguang era (1826) and is dedicated to Matsu. With nearly 200 years of history, it was originally built by the united efforts of 13 villages including Zhongli, Pingzhen, and Yangmei, initially enshrining Guanyin and later adding Matsu. Having undergone five major renovations, it is the oldest temple in Zhongli, located on Xin Jie, hence the nickname "Xin Jie Temple," and has always been a place of lively devotion! It currently serves as an important center of faith for the residents of Zhongli and is also known as "Zhongli Matsu." During the Japanese colonial period, under the assimilation movement, the Jiang Hai Temple was the only temple in the Zhongli area that escaped demolition. The nearby Shengji Pavilion, rebuilt during the Showa era, retains the popular pebble-washing and Baroque decorative art styles of that time, vividly reflecting the architectural style of cultural fusion. The architectural layout and style of Jiang Hai Temple follow the traditional architecture of southern China, consisting of a front hall, main hall, and rear hall, which conforms to a three-hall architectural pattern. The mountain gate stands independently at the front of the temple, with four pillars and three gates, creating a magnificent atmosphere. In 2019 (the 108th year of the Republic of China), renovations were completed, and a new Agarwood Matsu Hall was added. The thousand-year Agarwood Matsu statue is 109 cm tall, weighs 53 kg, has a solemn appearance, and is rarely dressed in official robes, holding unique significance, comparable to the Golden Matsu of Dajia and the Coral Matsu of Yilan. Today, Jiang Hai Temple is rejuvenated with its ornate beams and painted rafters, showcasing the grandeur of a century-old temple. Currently, Jiang Hai Temple frequently hosts various celebrations and folk activities, including the birthday of Matsu on March 23 of the lunar calendar, the Zhongyuan Festival "Zhongyuan Pudu," the "Water Lantern Release," and the Matsu's return and procession in November, attracting pilgrims from all over to participate in these significant festivities. (Image and text sourced from Jiang Hai Temple)
