Tongliang Ancient Banyan Tree Introduction
The ancient banyan tree in Tongliang Village, which stands in front of Baoshun Temple, is over 300 years old and is the largest sacred tree in Penghu. It has a total of 95 aerial roots, with its foliage covering the open space in front of the temple, creating a shaded plaza for resting. Without careful observation, it is hard to believe that all the branches come from the same tree. As for the history of the ancient banyan, there is no definitive answer. One legend suggests that during the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, a merchant ship passing near Tongliang encountered a maritime disaster, with only a sapling surviving the wreck, drifting to the Tongliang coast. The villagers picked it up and planted it in front of the temple. Based on this account, the ancient banyan in Tongliang could be over 300 years old. Another legend holds that the banyan might only be 200 years old, as it is customary in Chinese planting practice to plant trees after a temple is constructed. Given that Baoshun Temple was established around 200 years ago, the ancient banyan might indeed be a century younger than the legend suggests. Regardless of which version is correct, the remarkable shade of the ancient banyan is worth a visit. The extensive shade of the ancient banyan in Tongliang serves as a resting place for local villagers to take a break, play chess, and drink tea. On hot summer days, visitors are encouraged to slow down or stop and enjoy a moment of leisurely time "under the great tree's shade."
