Zhubei Tianhou Temple Introduction
Zhubei Tianhou Temple enshrines the main deity, Ma Zu (Matsu), who is represented by the only clay statue gold body in Taiwan. The temple is located in a region formerly known as Douzai Pu, which corresponds to present-day Zhubei Li, Zhuren Li, and Zhuyi Li. The name of the area originates from its location upstream of the Xinzhongzi Canal, where the irrigation was difficult, and after the wasteland was cultivated, only legumes could be grown, hence the name "Douzai Pu." Due to the challenges of farming, many residents relied on fishing. When the early settlers first crossed the sea to Taiwan, they prayed to Matsu, the guardian deity of homes and navigation, for peace and protection. At that time, the Qing dynasty imposed strict maritime bans, making it impossible for both illegal immigrants and legal migrants to bring their families, which led to significant unrest among the people. Fortunately, Matsu's compassionate powers were widely recognized, and the spiritual beliefs of the early settlers were entrusted to her. For over a century, during the Lantern Festival, believers have sought locations to erect temporary structures for peace and blessing ceremonies in gratitude for Matsu's grace, a religious tradition that continues to this day and has become a characteristic of Tianhou Temple.
