Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple, Chaolong Temple, and Fu'an Temple are the three major temples in Donggang, each dedicated to different deities. Among them, the deity worshiped at Donglong Temple, Mr. Wen, is an important spiritual support for the people of Donggang and is closely linked to the cultural customs of Donggang Township. Mr. Wen is also known as "Qiansui." The legends surrounding Mr. Wen vary; it is said that he was a protector during the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty and died heroically at sea. In local customs, Mr. Wen is viewed as either a sea god or a plague god and has been conferred by the Jade Emperor to patrol the heavens on behalf of heaven. Legend has it that every three years, Mr. Wen returns to Donggang, giving rise to the "Donggang Welcoming King Peace Festival," which occurs every three years. To welcome the deity's arrival, nearly all residents of Donggang Township participate, following ancient methods to create intricately carved and painted decorations, including the "King Boat" used for welcoming and sending off the deity. The eight-day festival features various events such as welcoming the king, processions, banquets for the king, and sending off the king. Throughout Donggang, one can witness awe-inspiring festivals, lively performances, deafening firecrackers, and devoted worshipers. If you have the chance to visit Donggang during the "Donggang Welcoming King Peace Festival," take a moment to join in the festivities and experience the respect for Mr. Wen and the local cultural enthusiasm. The main deity of Donglong Temple, Mr. Wen, has the surname Wen, the name Hong, and the courtesy name Dexiu. He was born during the Sui Dynasty and hailed from Baima Alley in Licheng County, Jinan Prefecture, Shandong Province. During the Zhenguan Era of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Li Shimin was traveling incognito when he encountered danger. Wen Hong selflessly saved the emperor, earning high merit, and was awarded the title of Jinshi. At that time, thirty-six individuals who aided the emperor were also conferred the title of Jinshi. Due to nearby bandit activities that were rampant and caused great hardship for the people, the thirty-six Jinshi were appointed to lead troops to eradicate the bandits. Wen Hong commanded the troops with exceptional skill, directly attacking the bandit stronghold, resulting in thousands of rebels surrendering, which led to national peace and stability. Upon returning to the capital, he received imperial commendations and was conferred the title of Mr. Wen. During a time of peace and prosperity, the thirty-six Jinshi were ordered to travel around the country to promote the virtues of the Tang Dynasty. Unfortunately, during one of their maritime expeditions, they encountered an accident and all perished at sea. When Emperor Zhenguan learned of this tragedy, he mourned the loss of his loyal supporters and reaffirmed the belief that they had become deities. He posthumously conferred the title "Patrolling on behalf of Heaven," ordered temples to be built nationwide for spring and autumn worship, and decreed that they should enjoy the offerings of the people on earth. He also commanded the construction of a large vessel, named the "Wen Wang Ship," which contained the spirit tablets for Mr. Wen and his sworn brothers. At the end of the ceremonies, the ship was sent into the sea. The ship bore a royal inscription stating, "Patrol the government and the county, the people should offer sacrifices," announcing to the world that wherever the Wen Wang Ship docked, both commoners and officials should welcome it by slaughtering pigs and sheep for offerings, to comfort Mr. Wen's spirit in heaven. (Image and text provided by Donglong Temple)
A view inside Donglong Temple
Donglong Temple Golden Archway
