Cilong Temple Introduction
Cilong Temple, dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, features accompanying deities Shancai and Liangnu, along with the Earth God and Goddess of Birth. It represents a syncretic folk belief of Buddhism and Taoism in Taiwan, originally named Guanyin Pavilion, with worship beginning in the 41st year of Qianlong (1776), when Han ancestors from Putuo Mountain in Zhejiang, China brought the faith to Taiwan. In 1906, a major earthquake struck Chiayi, damaging the Guanyin Pavilion, and local figures such as Ye Fa and Huang Xian initiated fundraising for its reconstruction on the original site. In 1938, during Japan's efforts to promote imperial subjects and Shinto beliefs, the Guanyin Pavilion was integrated into the City God Temple under the concept of "one village, one temple." In 1947, after donations from devotees including Tseng Mu, the temple was rebuilt at its current location. The famed national ink wash painter Lin Yushan was involved in the temple's construction, selected by Guanyin Bodhisattva to build at the site of the existing temple. Lin, residing nearby and working as an art teacher at National Chiayi Senior High School, actively participated in the temple's decorations, including five animal-themed ink wash frescoes imbued with auspicious meanings, making it a rare treasure as the only true original work left by a master in Taiwan. The frescoes were the last works completed by Lin before he left Chiayi and his only frescoes created for a religious structure. Fresco Introduction: The frescoes (Cilong Temple) are made from bamboo-woven mud walls, using bamboo as a framework with clay mixed with rice husks, straw, and glutinous rice as adhesive, applied before the outer layer of lime is dried. The challenge lies in timing, needing to complete before the outer lime layer dries, as colors can easily permeate, and mistakes cannot be wiped or altered. Cilong Temple Fresco Introduction: - Cloud Dragon: Manifestation of divine energy, supreme in heaven and earth, the dragon brings auspiciousness and fills the world with blessings. - Receiving Heaven's Blessings: Receiving Heaven's bounties, never lacking in food or clothing, enriched and honored throughout life. - Eternal Nobility: Blessings and fortunes for a thousand years, esteemed and noble, evergreens symbolizing longevity and auspicious fulfillment. - Granting Abundant Blessings: A celestial crane heralds auspiciousness, complete with five blessings, symbolizing longevity and abundant heavenly blessings. - Eight Galloping Horses: Eight noble steeds symbolize success, vibrant life, and smooth sailing in every endeavor. Note: Guided tours can be arranged by calling 05-2774488.
