Fengyuan Ciji Temple Introduction
Located at the intersection of Zhongzheng Road and Xinyi Road, the Ciji Temple is a religious center for the people of Fengyuan, dedicated to the worship of Ma Zu, the Heavenly Mother. Established during the Qing Yongzheng period, it has a history of over two hundred years, initially named "Guanyin Pavilion." During the Japanese occupation, it was temporarily used as a school, and in 1917, under the proactive efforts of local gentry Mr. Zhang Lijun, the temple was renovated, laying the foundation for the current appearance of Ciji Temple. After the 921 Earthquake, with the efforts of Mr. Guo Shilai and many others, it was restored in an ancient style, and projects such as the Ciji Building and Cultural Building were completed. The temple also has a library, a sutra chanting group, and a charity group. The main hall enshrines Ma Zu, alongside other deities such as Shennong, Wenchang, Guanyin, Earth Mother, and the Goddess of Childbirth. A former chairman of Ciji Temple once stated, "To light incense in the burner is not as good as sincerely seeking heaven; praying to the gods is better than self-cultivation." Devotees can sincerely worship with their hands together in prayer. Every year, on the eve of Ma Zu's birthday, Ciji Temple holds a solemn ceremony. The birthday of Ma Zu (March 23 in the lunar calendar) features a parade, making it an important annual celebration.
