Baisha Keng Wende Temple Introduction
Built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, it was named "Bao'an Temple." During the Daoguang period, due to the local Hanlin scholar Zeng Weizhen, the temple was renamed "Wende Temple," symbolizing "protecting the land and ensuring the safety of the people while promoting cultural virtues." The emperor granted the local land god, of Zeng's hometown, an official title equal to that of the Hanlin scholar and presented an official cap, making it the only land god in Taiwan with a bestowed official rank. Wende Temple follows over a century-old traditional lantern welcoming ceremony, which was registered as "intangible cultural heritage" in 2008. After four relocations, the temple grew larger and became more popular, with ceremonial gates and righteous pathways on both sides. Subsequently, the "Wuying Pavilion" was added to honor the divine military generals and showcase cultural artifacts, enhancing its historical significance.