Chaolong Temple Introduction
Chaolong Temple in Donggang was constructed in the first year of the Yongzheng era (AD 1723), making it 284 years old, second only to the thriving Donglong Temple (approximately 290 years old). Since the Ming Dynasty, especially after Zheng Chenggong established his base in Taiwan, more immigrants from mainland China settled in Donggang. Most of the ships crossing the sea to Taiwan worship Mazu on board for protection during their voyages. Throughout history, Mazu has been revered as the 'Guardian of Navigation'. According to legend, during the construction of the temple, an abundance of small shrimp suddenly appeared in the Donggang area, leading to the fame of Donggang shrimp, and the residents enjoyed bountiful catches, which is why Mazu is also known as "Shrimp Mazu." As time progressed, after the establishment of the Donggang Mazu Temple, the locality prospered, and various regions in Fujian, China, considered Donggang a trade center. Consequently, suggestions arose to expand the Mazu Temple, and merchants and fishermen from Donggang generously contributed funds. The Donggang Mazu is also known as "Port Suburb Mazu." Before heading out to sea, merchants and fishermen often pray to Mazu at the Chaolong Temple for blessings. Chaolong Temple is the main Mazu temple in Donggang, and as it faces inland rather than the sea, it is referred to as "Inland Suburb Mazu."
