Baishatun Gongtian Temple Introduction
During the Qianlong period of the Qing dynasty, the early settlers invited the Soft-Fleshed Mazu to be enshrined in their homes, and in the second year of the Tongzhi era, they built a temple for her, known as "Gongtian Temple," which is locally referred to as "Baishatun Mazu." The exterior of Gongtian Temple is majestic, adorned with intricate and colorful cut and paste decorations and a gilded eave, exuding brilliance and grandeur. Year after year, the pilgrimage of Baishatun Mazu on foot has lasted for over a century, making it older than similar Mazu pilgrimage activities in other parts of Taiwan. Beyond the significance of the religious ritual, in today's busy Taiwanese society, another charming aspect of the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage is the warm human connections formed within the devotees. Historically, due to its remote location, the residents of Baishatun have maintained a simple and frugal lifestyle, often undertaking the arduous journey to participate in the pilgrimage to Beigang on foot. Over the years, the steadfast ancestors of Baishatun cultivated a spirit of resilience and mutual support during the pilgrimage, creating a unique cultural landscape. Today, as I walk among the pilgrims toward Baishatun Mazu, we can easily sense the rich warmth of humanity, a treasure passed down through generations under the guidance of Mazu. The pilgrimage is entirely on foot, with the deity's palanquin dictating its own path. Unlike other Mazu pilgrimage activities throughout Taiwan, what makes the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage particularly noteworthy is that the route is entirely determined by the palanquin, leading many believers to firmly believe that there are no human controls involved—it's truly divine will guiding them to Beigang. Under this divine guidance, the devotees not only realize their own insignificance but also humbly observe the events happening around them, especially when receiving offerings from passersby, whether it's a cup of water, a bowl of porridge, or even a simple word of encouragement or concern, all of which leave a lasting impression. Many participants who join the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage find themselves returning the following year, as such a rich cultural experience is truly unique in Taiwan and is a pilgrimage journey that every Taiwanese person should experience at least once in their lifetime.
