Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple was initially established in 1706 (the 45th year of the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty), but in 1894 (the 20th year of the Guangxu era), a devastating tsunami completely washed away the temple's foundation. It was subsequently rebuilt at a different location, resulting in the Donglong Temple we see today. Donglong Temple is an extremely important religious center in Donggang, especially during the "King's Festival" held every three years, which has almost become a public celebration in Donggang. The "Burning of the King's Boat" ritual elevates the atmosphere of this religious activity to its peak, forming a festival culture renowned throughout Taiwan. The main deity worshipped at Donglong Temple is King Wen, named Hong and styled Dexiu, who was born in 609 AD (the 5th year of the Yangdi era of the Sui Dynasty), during the Tang Dynasty's Zhenguan period. According to legend, during an incognito inspection, Emperor Taizong of Tang faced danger, and Wen Hong came to his rescue, leading to the thirty-six people who assisted him being conferred the title of Jinshi. Later, due to their successes in suppressing bandits across various regions, the fame of the thirty-six Jinshi grew, and Wen Hong was further granted the title of Prince. During an imperial inspection by boat, they encountered a maritime disaster, resulting in the deaths of all thirty-six Jinshi. Sorrowful, Emperor Taizong believed in their deification and posthumously conferred the title of "Divine Inspector of Heaven" and ordered the construction of the "Wen Wang Boat," which enshrined the spirit of King Wen and his sworn brothers. The boat bears the inscription “Traveling through the government, traveling through the county” to proclaim that the people must faithfully worship and welcome. The residents of Donggang, who rely on the sea for their livelihood, believe that as long as they worship sincerely, the sea deity King Wen will surely bless Donggang with peace. Donglong Temple features a three-hall, five-gate architectural style with a heavy-eaved, quyi roof. In front of the temple stands a brilliantly ornate San Chuan-style archway, presenting a magnificent and extraordinary demeanor. Although the temple has been rebuilt, it still preserves many ancient relics, such as century-old plaques, blue stone dragon columns, an old Wen Wang boat that blesses safe voyages, and an ancient bronze bell said to withstand multiple melts. These all deserve a moment of admiration. The King's Festival held every three years at Donglong Temple traces back to the development history of Donggang. Charged with the role of praying for blessings, warding off evils, and resolving calamities, it faithfully follows the ceremonial rites passed down from the Qing Dynasty. The festival consists of thirteen rituals, with important ceremonies including the making of the King’s Boat, inviting the king, walking over fire, processions, transferring the boat, and sending off the king. The festival concludes with the burning of the King's Boat amidst the lowering of flags and cessation of drums. The King’s Boat Festival is not only time-consuming and large-scale, but it also always permeates a solemn and solemn religious atmosphere, earning the reputation of "North: Xikang, South: Donggang."
