San Shan Guo Wang Temple Introduction
The Sānshān Guówáng Temple, located in Jiuming Village, Jiuru Township, was established in 1651 (the 5th year of the Ming Yongli reign), making it over three hundred years old. It is a rare Hakka temple that has not undergone significant renovations or expansions and still retains its traditional architectural layout. It is currently designated as a Level 3 cultural heritage site. The term "Sānshān" originally referred to three famous mountains in Guangdong, China—Dushan, Mingshan, and Jinshan. The residents living here, in reverence to the mountain deities, developed the local belief in the "Sānshān Guówáng." According to local historical records, the earliest legends of the mountain gods appeared during the Sui Dynasty. These three mountain gods claimed to be brothers, dispatched to guard Dushan, Mingshan, and Jinshan, as conveyed by divine will. Furthermore, it is said that during the expansion of territories in the Song Dynasty, the three mountain gods aided in conquering lands, and thus were conferred the title of "Sān Guówáng." Although these legendary stories are hard to verify, they deeply resonate with the religious beliefs of the local Hakka community. In terms of appearance, the roof of the Jiuru Sānshān Guówáng Temple features a swallow-tail style, presenting a streamlined look from a distance. The architectural layout consists of three main halls and two wing rooms, decorated primarily with decorated earthenware from Jiaozhi, wooden beams and columns, and stone pillars. The painted and carved motifs of flowers, birds, deities, and beasts showcase remarkable craftsmanship. The halls are interconnected by corridors, with a front temple courtyard and a central temple courtyard. The hanging plaques inscribed with "Huìguāng Nánhǎi" and "Wēizhèn Hǎidōng," as well as offerings, incense burners, and fortune stick containers, are all significant historical artifacts. The "Sānshān Guówáng Temple Wangye Grandmother Returns to Her Parental Home" is an annual cultural festival. The event begins with devotees from Linluo Township traveling to the Jiuru Sānshān Guówáng Temple to welcome Wangye Grandmother home, which lasts several days. Later, the worshippers from Jiuru Township invite Wangye Grandmother back. The highlight of the event features the newborn boys of that year carrying incense and lanterns, accompanying Wangye Grandmother in a ceremonial parade, praying for local peace and prosperity. It is a religious ritual that integrates warm and heartfelt imagery.
