Donggang Donglong Palace Introduction
Donglong Temple was initially built in 1706 (the 45th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign), but a devastating tsunami in 1894 (the 20th year of the Guangxu Emperor's reign) completely destroyed the temple's foundation, leading to its relocation to the present site. Donglong Temple is a vital center of faith in Donggang, especially known for the "Wang Festival," which occurs every three years and has become a major event for the entire community. The "Burning of the Wang Boat" ritual elevates the atmosphere of this religious event to its peak, contributing to a festival culture renowned throughout Taiwan. The primary deity worshipped at Donglong Temple is Prince Wen, whose name is Hong and courtesy name is Dexiu. He was born in 609 AD (the 5th year of the Sui Dynasty's Yangdi) during the Tang Dynasty's Zhenguan era. According to legend, during an incognito inspection trip, Emperor Taizong of Tang encountered danger and was saved by Wen Hong, leading to Wen and thirty-six others being honored with the title of Jinshi. As they fought against bandits successfully, the fame of the thirty-six Jinshi grew, and Wen Hong was subsequently promoted to the title of Prince. During an official boat inspection, a maritime disaster struck, resulting in the drowning of all thirty-six Jinshi. Emperor Taizong, grieving but believing in the divine, posthumously conferred the title of "Heavenly Patrol" and ordered the construction of the "Wang Boat," which houses the tablets of Prince Wen and his sworn brothers. The boat features the inscription "Yau Fu Chi Fu, Yau Hsien Chi Hsien," signaling the required reverence and welcoming from the public. Given their livelihood from the sea, the residents of Donggang believe that sincere worship will ensure protection and peace in their area from the sea deity, Prince Wen. Donglong Temple showcases an architectural style characterized by three halls and five gates, along with a heavy eaved roof. In front of the temple stands a magnificent and intricately carved three-arch ceremonial gate, which presents an extraordinary grandeur. Although the temple has been rebuilt, it still preserves many ancient artifacts, such as a hundred-year-old plaque, a blue stone dragon pillar, an old Wang Boat that blesses safe voyages, and an ancient bronze bell that reportedly cannot be melted despite multiple attempts, all of which are worth appreciating. The Wang Boat Ceremony, which occurs every three years, traces its roots to the development history of Donggang and adheres to the traditional ceremonial rites passed down from the Qing Dynasty. The event comprises thirteen rituals, including the crafting of the Wang Boat, inviting the king, passing through fire, a procession, transferring the boat, and sending off the king, culminating in the burning of the Wang Boat amidst lowered flags and drums. The Wang Boat Ceremony is known for its lengthy duration, large scale, and persistent solemn religious atmosphere, earning the reputation that distinguishes Donggang as "North Xikang, South Donggang" among Taiwan's Wang Boat Ceremonies.
