Jiantan Old Temple Introduction
Jiantan has a legendary story. It is said that Zheng Chenggong once passed by this pond with his troops, where water monsters like flood dragons often created havoc, causing harm to many. Zheng threw his treasured sword, which he wore on his waist, into the pond to subdue the water monster, and from that day on, the pond became calm. This event led to the pond being named "Jiantan," meaning "Sword Pond." According to records, the ancient Jiantan Temple was referenced in the Taiwan Prefecture Gazette, stating, "Guanyin Temple is located in Bajilan Jiantan." The Tamsui District Records note, "Jiantan Temple, built in the 38th year of the Qianlong reign, funded by Wu Tinggao and others." There are inscriptions describing a monk named Ronghua who encountered a serpent blocking his way and, after divination, decided to establish a temple here. Later, a vision of a white-clad deity instructed him that eight boats would pass from Shanghai to Keelung, allowing for fundraising, which indeed came true, leading to the establishment of Jiantan Temple. Therefore, it has a history of over 350 years, though it was relocated to its current site in Dazhi during the late Japanese occupation. Before entering the temple, there is an archway with greenish tiles inscribed with the words "Ancient Jiantan Temple." The small alley inside leads to the original site of Jiantan Temple, and within this wooded area, remnants of the old temple pillars and stone tablets are preserved, bearing traces of numerous historical events and a strong sense of history.
