Dazheng Ye Temple (Dazhang Tree) Introduction
Jiji Dazhongye Temple, also known as Dazhongye Shrine, is an important center of worship and a historical cultural landmark in the area. It is said to have been established during the Qianlong period of the Qing dynasty, initially built to bury the remains of those who died in the Lin Shuangwen incident and the Dai Chaochun incident, symbolizing respect for the Qing loyalists and unnamed souls. The temple's location is known for its favorable feng shui, referred to as "Carp Land," and is adjacent to parks and the Jiji Camphor Tree, making it an important place for local residents to rest and worship. Historically, in 1863 during the Tongzhi period, local residents buried the remains of soldiers who sacrificed their lives in battle and built a shrine for worship. The temple was later renovated during the Guangxu period, and a statue of Dazhongye was sculpted, with a grand festival held on the 23rd day of the 8th lunar month, becoming a significant traditional annual event for Jiji. A stage is set up in front of the temple, attracting a large number of worshippers and tourists during the festival, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The Jiji Camphor Tree in front of the Dazhongye Temple is over 700 years old, approximately 30 meters tall, and is revered by locals as "Camphor Tree Deity," regarded as a divine presence. Notably, the tree hollow resembles the shape of Taiwan and is referred to as the "Taiwan Tree Hollow." In recent years, it has become a popular nesting site for owls (Eastern Screech Owl), with owls residing here for several consecutive years. These Eastern Screech Owls are gray-brown with light brown speckles, similar in color to the bark of the camphor tree, adding to the interest of observation.
