Shuilin Township, Sweet Potato House Shun Tian Temple Introduction
The only Matsu shrine in Taiwan is the Shun Tian Temple, which is dedicated to Matsu and popularly known as the Banshuliao Matsu. The statue of Matsu at this temple is rare in Taiwan, depicted standing with both hands raised in a gesture of worship. Every year on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, a lantern festival is held, featuring events such as turtle divination, sky lantern release, and horse shooting, culminating in three days and nights of processions. The Shun Tian Temple is located in the Banshuliao area of the township and the main hall worships the Heavenly Mother (the founding Matsu, along with the deities of the Thousand-Mile Eye and the Smooth Wind Ear General), the Xuantian Emperor, the Five Fortunate Lords (including the Kings of Chi, Wu, Zhu, and Fan), Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong), Wu and Liu Kings, and the Third Prince Li Nezha (Zhongtan Yuanshuai), as well as the Tiger Lord (Xiatan Yuanshuai). The geography surrounding the temple is particularly favorable, with the Beigang River to the east, the surrounding Banshuliao and Qiaosong drainage in front, and the Jian Mountain drainage behind. Image source: Hsueh Ying-Chi/Photographer. (Authorized photos are not to be reproduced.)
Fencotzu Shuntian Temple
