Songshan Ciyou Temple Introduction
Ciyou Temple was built in 1753 and has a history of over two hundred years, primarily worshipping the Black-faced Mazu. According to legend, after Mazu attained immortality, she frequently assisted distressed ships at sea. In Taiwan's belief system, she is a widely revered deity. The temple's architecture features a six-story square structure, with the main hall, San Chuan Hall, being quite solemn and grand. The roof ridge is adorned with the Double Dragons Presenting Blessings, along with the Three Immortals of Fortune, Prosperity, and Longevity, symbolizing protection. Inside San Chuan Hall, the stone lion sculptures, dating back to 1803, were once abandoned during renovations but were later rediscovered and placed in front of San Chuan Hall. Their unique presentation of a "male lion with an open mouth and a female lion with a closed mouth" is quite rare in Taiwan, making it a treasured guardian of the temple. In addition to these stone carvings, the wood carvings here exhibit vibrant colors, depicting flowers, animals, and figures, all lifelike, adding to the luxurious feel of the temple. Ciyou Temple has always been a spiritual refuge for the residents of the Thirteen Streets of Xikou. Every year on March 23, the birthday of the Heavenly Mother, the Thirteen Streets organize three routes—East, South, and North—in coordination with Ciyou Temple, where various shops and homes along the route prepare offerings or fresh flowers and fruits to warmly welcome Mazu as she parades through the area, lively engulfing the entire Songshan District. In recent years, Ciyou Temple has remained a focal point for the community, and with Raohe Street Night Market nearby, the area is naturally bustling with activity.
