Guanshan Mazu Temple Introduction
The main hall of the Tianhou Temple enshrines the Heavenly Mother, with a Mazu statue approximately 1.2 meters tall, featuring a delicate facial expression. The original Mazu statue is still present. The left hall is adorned with a tapestry that reads "Civilization and Might Shock the World," housing the revered Guandi (Guan Yu) and the Sage Confucius. The right hall's tapestry states "Abundant Harvests and People's Peace," dedicated to Shennong (the Divine Farmer) and Zhusheng Niangniang (the Goddess of Childbirth). Unlike typical temples in western Taiwan, this temple features a statue of Confucius instead of a spirit tablet for worship. Located in Guangshan Township, Tianhou Temple is one of the oldest temples in Taitung County, covering a large area of approximately 400 pings. The main entrance boasts an imposing gate tower, with a large banyan tree on each side of the temple plaza. In the middle, there is a Longquan Pool, while a stage is situated to the front left. The temple itself is built in a double hall style, with a worship pavilion at the front and the main hall at the back, connected by a courtyard. On the left side of the temple is the Sanbao Buddha Hall, which is an annex. Although Tianhou Temple is situated amidst shops, it is free from the noise of people and vehicles, making it a center of faith for the townspeople and a great place for leisure.
