Jiou-Ru San-Shan Guo-Wang Temple Introduction
The San Shan Guo Wang Temple, located in Jiuming Village, Jioulu Township, was established in 1651 (the 5th year of the Yongli era of the Ming dynasty), and has a history of over three hundred years. It is a rare Hakka ancient temple that has not undergone significant renovations or expansions, retaining its traditional architectural layout. It has been designated as a Level 3 historical monument. "San Shan" originally refers to three famous mountains in Guangdong, China: Dushan, Mingshan, and Jinshan. The residents who live here revered the mountain deities, which led to the local belief in the "San Shan Guo Wang." According to local literature, the earliest legends of the San Shan gods appeared during the Sui dynasty. These three mountain gods claimed to be brothers who, since they received a heavenly mandate, respectively guarded Dushan, Mingshan, and Jinshan. There is also a legend that during the Song dynasty, when expanding territory, the assistance of the three mountain gods was sought, which allowed them to successfully establish their rule, leading to their being conferred the title of the Three Kingdom Kings. Although these legendary stories are difficult to verify, they have deeply consolidated the religious beliefs of the local Hakka residents, allowing the faith to take root everywhere. In terms of appearance, the roof of the Jioulu San Shan Guo Wang Temple features a swallow-tail shaped San Chuan ridge, giving it a streamlined look from a distance. The architectural layout consists of three main halls and two side rooms, with decorations primarily made of Jiaozhi pottery, wooden beams and columns, and stone pillars. The intricate colorful paintings and carvings of flowers, birds, gods, and beasts are quite thoughtful. Halls are connected by side corridors, and there are front and middle temple courtyards. The temple houses valuable historical artifacts such as plaques inscribed with "Hui Guang Nan Hai," "Wei Zhen Hai Dong," shrines, incense burners, and fortune-sticks. The "San Shan Guo Wang Temple Wang Ye Nai Nai Returns to Her Home" is an annual cultural festival, which mainly involves devotees from Linluo Township going to Jioulu San Shan Guo Wang Temple to welcome Wang Ye Nai Nai back to her home as an opening event. After several days, the devotees from Jioulu Township will respectfully invite Wang Ye Nai Nai back to her residence. The climax of the entire event is when the newborn boys of the year carry incense and lanterns to accompany Wang Ye Nai Nai on her procession, praying for local peace and safety. It is a religious ritual that integrates warm scenes.
