Neimen Zizhu Temple Introduction
The Neimen Zhuzhu Temple, with a history of over 300 years, originally served as the guardian deity for the Guo family. Due to a legendary story of Guanyin's "flying incense burner," the villagers came together to build the temple, which has gained renown throughout southern and northern Taiwan. Many believers visit the temple, which has undergone numerous renovations over the years, making it one of the most historically significant and largest "Guanyin Temples" in the province. Neimen Zhuzhu Temple is not only the center of faith for the Neimen District, but also an important temple for devotees from all over Taiwan to pray for blessings. The Lunar calendar dates of February 19, June 19, and September 19 mark the Buddha's birthday, enlightenment, and ordination, respectively. The grand ceremonies attract an overwhelming number of pilgrims, turning the usually quiet Neimen District into a bustling scene. The temple grounds are lush with greenery, featuring streams, pavilions, and landscape designs, with artificial spring water gushing from a lotus fountain, often leaving visitors reluctant to leave. Historical Background of Neimen Zhuzhu Temple: It is said that during the Kangxi era of the Qing dynasty, the Guo clan who immigrated to Taiwan settled on Fanzilu Road in the southern corner. One day, the incense burner for Guanyin repeatedly flew out on its own and moved to the branch of a guava tree at the current site of the Zhuzhu Temple. This location is known as the "lotus cavity" in feng shui, and the locals took this as a miracle. Therefore, they collectively decided to build a temple here to worship Guanyin Bodhisattva. Following this, more miraculous events occurred, deepening the residents' devotion to the temple, resulting in an enduring incense-burning tradition that showcases its present glory. The main deity worshipped is Guanyin. During the Qianlong period, the governor of the naval forces passed by and discovered the temple's flourishing incense, deeming it a marvel. He entered the temple to pay respects and inscribed the plaque "Purple Bamboo Blossoms in Spring," which officially named the temple Zhuzhu Temple. This plaque is now well-preserved within the temple. Neimen Nanhai Zhuzhu Temple - Song Jiang Battle Array: The Neimen District in Kaohsiung is known for its folk arts and boasts the largest number of traditional folk art performances in Taiwan. The most well-known is the Neimen Song Jiang Battle Array, which originates from the procession accompanying the Buddha from Luohanmen and has a history of over 200 years. It has been listed among Taiwan's religious hundred scenes, with performances taking place in rotation at Neimen Zhuzhu Temple, Shunxian Temple, and Nanhai Zhuzhu Temple each year.
