Kaohsiung Luzhu Tianhou Temple Introduction
During the Kangxi period, as the number of settlers in the Luju area increased and life became more stable, a Mazu temple was built on what is now Zhongshan Road in 1671. After several renovations and expansions, the number of worshippers grew. However, with the passage of time and the development of Luju's streets, the temple space became insufficient and there was no room for further expansion. Therefore, in 1979, under the guidance of the Holy Mother, a new temple was constructed while retaining the old temple in the city, resulting in the coexistence of both. The new temple, known locally as Daitian Temple, is the largest temple in Luju, primarily dedicated to Ma Zu, the maritime guardian deity. It is the most important religious center in Luju. The new temple features a Minnan architectural style and stands three stories high, complemented by a spacious temple square, which gives it an extraordinary and majestic appearance. Two divine generals under Ma Zu, Qianliyan (All-seeing Eye) and Shunfeng'er (Listening Wind Ear), are also stationed on either side of the temple. The dragon statue in the main hall hosts an annual event called "Passing Through the Dragon's Throat" during Ma Zu's birthday celebration, where participants enter through the dragon's mouth and exit through the dragon's tail, symbolizing the removal of bad luck and the blessing of safety. This event is a unique prayer activity of the Luju Mazu temple.
