Tongliang Ancient Banyan Tree Introduction
The ancient banyan tree in Tongliang Village, located in Penghu, is over 300 years old and is the largest sacred tree providing shade in the area. This old banyan has a total of 95 aerial roots, creating a shaded square in front of the temple that serves as a resting place. If one does not observe closely, it is hard to believe that all the branches come from the same tree. The history of this ancient banyan is still uncertain. One legend suggests that during the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, a merchant ship sailing near the Houmen waters of Tongliang encountered a shipwreck, and a single sapling drifted ashore. The villagers of Tongliang recovered the sapling and planted it in front of the temple. Based on this, the ancient banyan could be over 300 years old. Another legend proposes that the banyan may only be 200 years old, as it was customary for the Chinese to plant trees only after a temple was constructed, which suggests that the Baosheng Temple was built approximately 200 years ago. Therefore, the ancient banyan might be 100 years younger than the legend suggests. Regardless of which tale is accurate, the magnificent sight of the ancient banyan is indeed worth visiting. The vast shade provided by this banyan is a gathering place for local villagers to take a break, play chess, and drink tea. On a hot summer day, visitors are encouraged to slow down and enjoy a moment of leisurely time “under the big tree for a good shade.”
