Houliao Weiling Temple, Chimi Wangliao Shigandang Introduction
Houliao Weiling Temple, dedicated to Baosheng Dadi (also known as Da Dao Gong or Wu Zhenjun), was established to honor the deity who is believed to protect life and health. Baosheng Dadi, whose courtesy name is Huaji and style name is Yundong, originated from Baijiao Village in Jishan Li, Ming Sheng Township, Tong'an District, Quanzhou, Fujian, which now belongs to Longhai District, Zhangzhou City. As a child, he was exceptionally intelligent and possessed innate Taoist qualities, later becoming well-versed in astronomy, geography, and various classical texts, particularly excelling in medicine. His medical reputation gradually spread among the people. The Houliao Weiling Temple in Baisha Township has a history of over 400 years, making it the origin of Baosheng Dadi worship throughout Penghu. Baosheng Dadi is venerated for his remarkable influence and power, with his faith spreading to the villages of Nanbailiao and Beibailiao in Huxi Township, where devotion remains strong and incense offerings continue to be made. Built during the 30th year of the Wanli Era in the Ming Dynasty (1602 AD), Houliao Weiling Temple has undergone several renovations and restorations throughout the years. After the establishment of the Republic of China, local gentlemen and elder committee members proposed its reconstruction, and it was rebuilt for the second time in the 21st year of the Republic (1932). After 63 years, the temple was once again reconstructed following a fire in the 84th year of the Republic (1995), with the completion occurring in the 85th year (1996). The temple stands tall and magnificently, with monuments from different restorations placed in a corner of the temple grounds. Next to Houliao Weiling Temple is the largest stone "Shigandang" (a stone monument to ward off evil spirits) in Taiwan, standing almost 200 centimeters high, built in the 22nd year of the Daoguang Era (1842). The origin of this stone dates back to the autumn and winter of the 21st year (1841) when villagers in the area known as "Fengkengkou," between Houliao and Tongliang, were troubled by malevolent spirits. They prayed to Baosheng Dadi for guidance, who instructed them to set up the "Chimei Wangliao" (with an extra character for rain) stone to exorcise the spirits and safeguard the area, leading to their disappearance. Originally positioned at the exorcism site, the stone was later moved to the left side of the Weiling Temple and underwent numerous repairs. Between 2008 and 2009, the foundation was reinforced into three levels, with stone slabs laid and auspicious designs such as deer and cranes carved on it, alongside a pair of Qilins and protective railings displayed. The "Chimei Wangliao" stone, a century-old talisman, is the largest of its kind in Taiwan, and the "Shigandang" represents a unique belief symbol developed by island residents. [Suggested Duration of Stay] 0.5 hours
The pavilion next to Houliao Weiling Temple, with columns made of old temple-type tapered columns.
