Tianhou Temple, Luzhu, Kaohsiung Introduction
During the Kangxi era, as the number of settlers in the Luzhu area increased and life became more stable, the Tianhou Temple was built on the present Zhongshan Road in 1671. After several renovations and expansions, the number of worshippers grew. However, with the changes over time and the development of Luzhu's streets, the space of the temple gradually became inadequate, and there was no land available for further expansion. Therefore, in 1979, under the guidance of the Goddess of Mercy, a new temple was constructed while retaining the old temple in the city, resulting in the coexistence of both. The new temple, locally known as the Daitianhou Temple in Luzhu, is the largest temple in Luzhu, dedicated to the Heavenly Holy Mother, the guardian deity of navigation, Mazu. It is the most important religious center in Luzhu. The new temple features a Minnan architectural style, stands three stories tall, and its spacious temple square gives it a magnificent and solemn appearance. Two divine generals under Mazu, Qianliyan and Shunfeng'er, are also present on either side of the temple. The dragon sculpture in the temple hall is involved in an event called "Guo Longhou" during Mazu's birthday each year, where participants enter through the dragon's mouth and exit through the dragon's tail, symbolizing the removal of misfortunes and the protection of safety. This is a unique blessing activity of the Luzhu Tianhou Temple.
