Fengyuan Ciji Temple Introduction
Located at the intersection of Zhongzheng Road and Xinyi Road, Ciji Temple is the faith center for the people in the Fengyuan area, dedicated to the worship of the Heavenly Mother, Mazu. Established during the Qing Dynasty under the Yongzheng Emperor, it has a history of over two hundred years, originally named "Guanyin Pavilion." During the Japanese colonial period, it was repurposed as a school. In the sixth year of the Taisho era (1917), with the active promotion of local gentry Mr. Zhang Lijun, the temple was repaired, laying the foundation for the current appearance of Ciji Temple. Later, through the efforts of Mr. Guo Shilai and various individuals, it was once again restored in an ancient style after the 921 Earthquake, along with the completion of Ciji Building, Cultural Building, and other projects. Ciji Temple also features a library, chanting group, and charity group. The main shrine enshrines Mazu, along with other deities such as Shennong Emperor, Wenchang Dijun, Guanyin Bodhisattva, Earth Mother, and Zhurou Niangniang. The former chairman of Ciji Temple stated: "Lighting incense in the stove is not as good as sincerely praying to heaven; seeking help from deities is less important than self-cultivation." Believers can earnestly pray to heaven, cultivate themselves, and join their hands in reverence. Every year on the eve of Mazu's birthday, Ciji Temple holds a solemn ceremony. Mazu's birthday (the 23rd day of the third lunar month) features a solemn procession, which is an important annual celebration.
