Donggang Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple was initially established in 1706 (the 45th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign), but in 1894 (the 20th year of the Guangxu Emperor's reign), a devastating tsunami completely destroyed the temple's foundation. It was thus rebuilt on a different site, which is the current Donglong Temple. Donglong Temple is a significant religious center in Donggang, especially known for the "Welcoming King Festival," held every three years, which has become a major event for the community. The ritual of "burning the king's boat" elevates the atmosphere of this religious event to its peak, forming a celebrated festival culture known throughout Taiwan. The main deity of Donglong Temple is Lord Wen, who was born in 609 AD (the 5th year of the Sui Emperor Yang’s reign) during the Tang Dynasty, a period marked by the Zhenguan era. According to legend, during a secret inspection tour, Emperor Taizong of Tang encountered danger, and Wen Hong saved him, which led to the awarding of the title of scholar to him and the thirty-six companions who aided in the rescue. For successfully suppressing banditry across various regions, their fame gradually spread, and Wen Hong was further honored as a lord. During a royal expedition by boat, the thirty-six scholars tragically drowned in a maritime disaster. Heartbroken, Emperor Taizong believed in their deification and posthumously granted them the title of "Divine Patrol of Heaven," ordering the construction of the "Wen Wang Boat" that houses the spirit tablets of Lord Wen and his sworn brothers. The king boat features an inscription stating, "Roaming the government, roaming the county," proclaiming that the common people must respectfully welcome and venerate. Thus, the coastal residents of Donggang believe that as long as they sincerely worship, the sea deity Lord Wen will surely bless Donggang with peace. Donglong Temple features a three-hall, five-gate architectural format, capped with a double-eaved roof. In front of the temple stands a brilliantly adorned and intricately carved "San Chuan-style" paifang (archway), which presents an extraordinary majestic atmosphere. Although the temple has been rebuilt, many ancient relics have been preserved, including a century-old plaque, blue stone dragon columns, the old Wen Wang boat that blesses safe voyages, and a historic bronze bell that is said to be unable to melt despite repeated attempts. These are all worthy of appreciation. The "King Boat Festival" of Donglong Temple, held every three years, traces back to the history of Donggang's development. As it carries the task of blessing and averting disasters, it strictly follows the ceremonial traditions passed down from the Qing Dynasty. The entire festival consists of thirteen rituals, with significant ones including the construction of the king boat, inviting the king, passing through fire, neighborhood procession, moving the boat, and sending the king off, culminating in the burning of the king boat and the cessation of drums and flags to conclude the event. The king boat festival is not only lengthy and grand in scale, but it also pervades a solemn religious atmosphere, thus earning the reputation of "North Xigang, South Donggang" among king boat festivals in Taiwan.
