Beichen Temple, Magong, Penghu Introduction
Main Deity: King Zhu Festival Date: Lunar May 18th. Legend has it that during the Tang Dynasty, 360 scholars in both civil and military disciplines met with misfortune at the same time. The then Emperor Taizong of Tang, feeling pity for their innocence, particularly conferred upon them the title of immortal to patrol on behalf of Heaven, visiting various cities and counties to inspect good and evil among mortals. These 360 scholars willingly divided into groups, either five or three at a time, to patrol different regions, compelling respect with their powerful presence; wherever their boat docked, it would surely bring auspicious omens, and they would be sincerely welcomed at every stop for prayers of peace. This custom has continued to the present without neglect. As Taiwan and the Penghu Islands are numerous and surrounded by the sea, the welcome for the immortals is notably stronger than in other areas. Among the most famous is the Southern Kuncheng Five Immortals, known for having traveled to Penghu during the Qing Dynasty, where they used the Tianhou Temple as their base. Therefore, all the residents of Sanjia Ding wholeheartedly managed the matters of the temporary headquarters. To commemorate and express gratitude for the divine blessings, over twenty individuals, including Huang Jishi, formed a deity association and carved the golden statue of King Zhu, taking turns in worship for over 40 years. In the 13th year of the Republic, they began construction of the temple, which was completed a year later. Because it was built by the residents of Beijia, the temple was named Beichen Temple.
Beichan Temple, Magong
Beichan Temple in Magong, Penghu
