Tongliang Ancient Banyan Introduction
The old banyan tree in Tongliang Village, located in front of the Bao'an Temple, is over 300 years old and is the largest sacred tree in Penghu. It has a total of 95 aerial roots, with its canopy covering the open space in front of the temple, creating a shady resting area. Without careful observation, it's hard to believe that all the branches come from the same tree. There is currently no confirmed history regarding this ancient banyan tree. According to one legend, during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, a merchant ship passed the coastal waters of Houmen near Tongliang but unfortunately encountered a shipwreck. Only one sapling survived and floated to the shores of Tongliang, where villagers picked it up and planted it in front of the temple. Based on this, it is estimated that the ancient banyan tree in Tongliang may be over 300 years old. Another legend, however, suggests that it might only be 200 years old, as Chinese planting customs usually involve planting trees only after a temple is established. Considering the history of the Bao'an Temple, which dates back about 200 years, the ancient banyan tree in Tongliang might be 100 years younger than the first legend suggests. Regardless of which claim is correct, the remarkable shade of the ancient banyan tree is definitely worth visiting. The vast shade of the Tongliang ancient banyan tree serves as a place for local villagers to rest, play chess, and drink tea. During the hot summer days, visitors are encouraged to slow down or stop and enjoy a moment of leisure in the cool shade of the tree.
