Erwang Temple Introduction
Erwang Temple is an ancient temple with a long history in the Yongkang area, built in 1681. Initially, it was dedicated to the Prince of Yanping, Zheng Jing, who died after falling from his horse. As historical beliefs evolved, it is now primarily dedicated to the Emperor Guan, while still venerating the two princes of the Zheng family. The temple has many legends associated with it; it is said that in the late Qing Dynasty, the surrounding area of Erwang Village was filled with towering banyan trees and sparsely populated, with only a small path for passage. During that time, bandits were rampant and boldly announced their intention to rob the settlement. The frightened local residents prayed for safety to the two princes, and to their surprise, when the bandits arrived that day, they became lost in the banyan forest and could not find the path leading to the village. The residents were amazed and believed it to be a miracle of the two princes, which solidified the importance of Erwang Temple in the local faith.