Banqiao Cihui Temple Introduction
Cihui Temple is located in the bustling area of Banqiao District, New Taipei City. It serves as the center of Matsu worship for the old Bajie Fortress and is one of the five major temples of Bajie Fortress, along with the Wenchang Temple on Fangqiao Street (now Banqiao District), Jiyun Temple on Fangqiao Street (now Banqiao District), Guangji Temple in Fangliao (now Zhonghe District), and the large graveyard in Daanliao Village (now Tucheng District). The incense-burning Cihui Temple is a long-established Matsu temple in the Banqiao area, with its traditional architectural structure nestled among residential buildings, creating an interesting contrast. The temple is adorned with cuttings, carvings, and paintings, showcasing exquisite and ornate decorations that reflect the beauty of traditional arts. Many precious historical artifacts, such as ancient plaques and dragon pillars from the Guangxu and Tongzhi eras of the Qing Dynasty, are preserved inside the temple, making it worth exploring like a treasure hunt. Interestingly, Matsu's capable assistants—Qianliyan (the Eye that Sees a Thousand Miles) and Shunfeng'er (the Ear that Listens to the Wind)—hold gold ingots, and during the festive seasons, crowds of worshippers come to pray for prosperity.
