Zhonghe Ciyou Temple Introduction
Ciuyou Temple is the oldest temple in Xinzhuang, reportedly founded in the 25th year of the Kangxi era (1686). It was renamed "Ciuyou Temple" during its renovation in the 9th year of the Yongzheng era (1731). It is commonly referred to as "Xinzhuang Mazu Temple." The temple has undergone renovations in the Qianlong, Jiaqing, Xianfeng, Tongzhi, Guangxu, Japanese colonial period, and after the restoration of the Republic of China. In the 74th year of the Republic of China, Ciuyou Temple was listed as a third-level historical site in the Taiwan-Fujian region. This temple is also mentioned in the "Comprehensive History of Taiwan," originally a modest small temple, it has become a center of faith as Xinzhuang developed, and was thus rebuilt into a relatively large Mazu Temple. The main hall of Ciuyou Temple is dedicated to Mazu, with the left side dedicated to the King of Hell and the right side to the God of Wealth. The back hall is dedicated to Guanyin, with the left and right sides dedicated to Bodhidharma and the Goddess of Childbirth, respectively. The Mount Hall enshrines the tablets of past masters and resident monks. Mazu is not only the guardian deity of sailors but also a spiritual support for the people of Xinzhuang, hence their deep emotional connection to Ciuyou Temple. The intricate carvings, vivid depictions of dragon designs, delicately crafted phoenixes and flowers, narrative figures, and the dragon sculptures in the front hall all exhibit great artistic value. The temple also has numerous inscriptions from the Qianlong and Jiaqing eras, ancient steles, and wooden couplets, which hold immense historical value and are worth visiting and appreciating.
