Jinshan Cihou Temple Introduction
The Cihu Temple, located on Xiajie Street in Jinshan, has a history of two hundred years and is the largest temple in Jinshan, primarily dedicated to the sea goddess Matsu. It serves as a religious center for the local community, often referred to by Jinshan residents as the "Great Temple." The exquisite artistic craftsmanship found in every aspect, from the base to the roof and walls, is truly worthy of appreciation. The main hall features octagonal dragon columns, which are exquisite pieces of craftsmanship from the Qing Dynasty's Tongzhi era and are quite rare. The Matsu at Cihu Temple is divided into two: the "Big Matsu" and the "Second Matsu." The Second Matsu was once adrift at sea and, by chance, was discovered on the shores of Yehliu. Because the statue is only eight inches tall, locals pooled their resources to carve a large statue of Matsu to house the eight-inch figure inside, giving rise to the term "Matsu within Matsu." Each year, on the sixteenth day of the fourth lunar month, the Second Matsu travels from Jinshan to Yehliu to visit her "maternal home," becoming a unique celebration shared by Jinshan, Shimen, and Wanli.
