Wanhua Temple Introduction
Wanhe Temple (also known as Lihou Store Mazu Temple) was established in 1684 and is the oldest temple in Taichung City. It is named after the "Lihou Store Street" (now located in Nantun District), where many shops that made plows and farming tools gathered. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, also known as the Heavenly Mother of Meizhou, and is one of the four major Mazu temples in Taichung City. Wanhe Temple features the characteristic intricacy of Taiwanese temples, with complex and detailed carvings. Construction was completed in the fifth year of the Yongzheng reign, and it has undergone renovations in the first year of the Daoguang reign, the twelfth year of the Guangxu reign, and in the 52nd, 55th, and 65th years of the Republic of China, making the temple look brand new. Wanhe Temple is a three-hall building that includes side halls, the main hall dedicated to Mazu, and the rear hall dedicated to Guanyin. The east side hall is dedicated to Guan Yu, while the west side hall honors Shennong, all deities worshipped by believers. The rear hall’s side rooms feature a century-old palanquin, intricately crafted and resplendent, with an ancient tripod from the fifth year of Guangxu and an ancient bell from the twentieth year of Daoguang placed beside the stone steps, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
