Cihlong Temple Introduction
Cilong Temple is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, with accompanying deities including the kind-hearted Shancai and Liangnu, as well as the Earth God and the childbirth goddess. It represents a blend of Buddhist and Taoist folk beliefs in Taiwan. Originally named Guanyin Pavilion, the belief began in the 41st year of the Qianlong reign (1776), brought to Taiwan by Han ancestors from Putuo Mountain in Zhejiang, China. In the 39th year of the Meiji period (1906), a significant earthquake struck Chiayi, causing the Guanyin Pavilion to collapse. Local figures such as Ye Fa and Huang Xian initiated fundraising for its reconstruction on the original site. In the 13th year of the Showa era (1938), the Japanese government implemented the Kōminka movement and Shinto belief in Taiwan, leading to the incorporation of Guanyin Pavilion into the City God Temple under the concept of "one street, one temple." In 1947, devotees including Zeng Mu raised funds to purchase the current site and rebuild Cilong Temple. Master Lin Yushan, a national traditional Chinese painter, was inspired by Avalokiteshvara's divine will to build the temple on the current site, with local residents contributing time and money for its construction. Lin Yushan, living nearby and working as an art teacher at the National Chiayi Senior High School, enthusiastically participated in the temple’s interior decoration, including five wet ink murals featuring animals, symbolizing good fortune. These murals are the only authentic masterpieces by Lin Yushan in Taiwan and are considered a rare treasure, representing his last set of works before leaving Chiayi, as well as being the only wet mural he created in a religious building. Introduction to the Wet Murals (Cilong Temple): The wet murals are made using a bamboo arched framework covered with clay mixed with rice husks, straw, and glutinous rice as an adhesive. Once dried, a layer of lime powder is applied, and the exterior is painted while the lime is still wet. This technique is known as wet mural painting and has challenges, such as the need to complete the painting quickly before the lime dries, as well as issues with paint penetration and the inability to wipe or modify the work. Description of the Wet Murals at Cilong Temple: - Cloud Dragon: Spirit and energy manifest, supreme between heaven and earth, the dragon brings good fortune, and blessings fill the world. - Blessings from Heaven: Abundant blessings from heaven, with no lack of food or clothing, riches and honor in life. - Eternal Noble Titles: Prosperity for eons, riches and honor, persistent longevity like pine and cypress, auspiciousness and contentment. - Bestowed Blessings: Celestial crane symbolizes auspiciousness, bringing all five blessings, longevity like pine and crane, and immense fortune. - Eight Divine Horses: Eight vigorous horses symbolize success and prosperity, vitality in life, and smooth achievements in all endeavors. Note: Guided tours can be scheduled by calling 05-2774488.
