Wuchi Chaoyuan Temple Introduction
Wuqih Chao Yuan Temple's architectural history can be traced back to over 150 years ago, though the temple was not located at its current site until 1864 when it was moved to No. 140, Wuqih Road. At that time, the salt administration invited a wooden statue of Mazu from Meizhou Tianhou Temple, referred to as "Kai Ji Ma." Historical research indicates that "Kai Ji Ma" is one of the earliest Mazu statues in Taiwan, now over 323 years old, and is currently housed in Wuqih Chao Yuan Temple. When locals refer to praying to "Wuqih Ma," they mean visiting Wuqih Chao Yuan Temple for worship. In addition to thanking Mazu for her protection and praying for safety, visitors to Chao Yuan Temple can also admire the stone tablets on the walls and the inscriptions on the beams and columns, many of which are works by contemporary celebrities or literati. Chao Yuan Temple hosts festive activities every year during the Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival, and Bathing Buddha Festival, and also holds occasional peace rituals, encouraging active public participation.
