Chenghuang Temple, Taiwan Introduction
The City God Temple of Taipei was originally a government temple, and it has now become a nonprofit organization, one of the most well-established public temples in Taiwan. In 1875, the Qing dynasty upgraded Tamsui to Taipei Prefecture, shortly after which Chen Xingju established the Taipei government. In 1881, the Taipei City God Temple was built at the intersection of Fu Zhi Street and North Gate Street (between Yanping South Road and Hankou Street, Taipei City) behind the Taipei government building. During the Japanese occupation, the temple was demolished, and after the restoration of Taiwan, it was relocated to its current site, which has convenient transportation and a prosperous commercial area, becoming a center of faith for local residents. The temple's reputation extends far and wide due to the mighty presence of the City God, attracting worshippers from both domestic and overseas. This temple is the largest in Taipei, dedicated to the main deity, the City God, and also enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, Bhaisajyaguru, Amitābha, Guanyin, Kṣitigarbha, Guan Yu, Fuyou Emperor, Wenchang Emperor, Jikong Zen Master, Lady City God, and the God of Wealth, among others. The couplets, plaques, paper cuts, paintings, and carvings inside all embody the principles of "seeking good fortune and avoiding misfortune" and "subtle influence," serving to enlighten the minds of the worshippers who come to pay their respects.
