Baishatun Gongtian Temple Introduction
During the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, the ancestors invited the Soft-bodied Mazu to be worshiped in residential homes. Later, in the second year of Tongzhi, a temple was built to honor her, known as "Gongtian Temple," which is locally referred to as "Baishatun Mazu." The exterior of Gongtian Temple is magnificent, adorned with intricate and colorful cut-and-paste decorations and gold-leafed eaves, shining brightly with grandeur. Year after year, the foot pilgrimage of Baishatun Mazu has continued for over a century, making it even older than the existing Mazu pilgrimages in other regions of Taiwan. Beyond the religious significance, one of the enchanting aspects of this pilgrimage in today's busy Taiwanese society is the warmth and humanity shared among the devotees, devoid of any barriers. For a long time, due to its remote location, the residents of Baishatun have led simple and frugal lives, and each year, they must undertake the arduous journey on foot to participate in the pilgrimage to Beigang. Over time, the diligent ancestors of Baishatun have fostered a spirit of mutual support and perseverance during the pilgrimage, creating a unique cultural landscape. Today, as I walk among the procession toward Baishatun Mazu, we can naturally feel the abundance of human kindness, a treasure passed down through generations under the guidance of Mazu. The entire journey is on foot, with the path determined by the deity's palanquin. Compared to Mazu pilgrimages in other parts of Taiwan, what makes the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage particularly fascinating is the route, which is entirely decided by the palanquin. Many devotees deeply believe that there are no human controls involved, and the journey is truly guided by divine will toward Beigang. Under this divine guidance, devotees not only recognize their insignificance but also learn to humbly observe the events around them, especially when they receive items from passersby during moments of hunger, such as a cup of water, a bowl of porridge, or even a few words of concern or encouragement, which leave a lasting impression. Those who join the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage often find themselves returning the following year, as such a rich cultural spectacle is unparalleled in Taiwan, making it a pilgrimage every Taiwanese person must experience at least once in their lifetime.
