Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple, Chaolong Temple, and Fuan Temple are the three famous temples in Donggang, each dedicated to its own main deity. Among them, the deity of Donglong Temple, known as King Wen, holds significant spiritual importance for the people of Donggang and is closely tied to the cultural customs of Donggang Township. The King, also referred to as "Qiansui," has varying legends regarding his origin. According to tradition, he was Wen Hong, who served as a protector during the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty and sacrificed himself in the sea. In local customs, King Wen is viewed as both a sea god and a plague god, having been conferred a title by the Jade Emperor to patrol the heavens. It is said that every three years, King Wen returns to Donggang, giving rise to the "Donggang Welcoming King Peace Festival," which occurs every three years. To welcome the King, nearly all residents of Donggang mobilize, adhering to ancient methods to craft and decorate the offerings, including the “King's Altar” and “King’s Ship.” The eight-day festival includes various events such as welcoming the King, religious processions, feasting for the King, and sending him off, all marked by awe-inspiring ceremonies, lively performances, and the thunderous sounds of firecrackers, as well as fervent worship from devotees. If you have the opportunity to visit Donggang during the "Donggang Welcoming King Peace Festival," consider stopping to participate in this grand event to experience the respect Donggang has for King Wen and the local cultural enthusiasm. The main deity of Donglong Temple, King Wen, has the surname Wen and the name Hong, courtesy name Dexiu. He was born during the Sui Dynasty, specifically from Baima Lane in Licheng County, Jinan Prefecture, Shandong Province. During the Zhenguan era of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Li Shimin disguised himself and went on a journey, encountering danger. Wen Hong bravely saved the emperor, gaining prominence in this act. The emperor granted him the title of Jinshi, along with thirty-six others who also assisted in the rescue. At that time, nearby areas were troubled by banditry, causing great suffering for the people. The thirty-six Jinshi were given troops to subdue the bandits. Wen Hong was strategic in battle, directly attacking the bandit strongholds, leading many rebels to surrender, thus restoring peace to the country. After returning to court, he was rewarded with honors and was enshrined as a god. During the peaceful times, the thirty-six Jinshi were commanded to travel across the country, spreading the virtues of the Tang Dynasty. Once, during a maritime inspection, they unfortunately encountered danger at sea, and all thirty-six perished without exception. Upon hearing this news, the Zhenguan emperor mourned the loss of his loyal ministers and believed in their eventual apotheosis, posthumously awarding them the title of "Heavenly Patrol." He decreed nationwide construction of temples to worship them during spring and autumn festivals, granting them eternal incense offerings. Additionally, he ordered the construction of a grand ship named “Wenwang Ship” to carry the statues of King Wen and his sworn brothers, which would be sent into the sea after the cleansing ritual. On the King’s Ship, there is an imperial inscription stating, “Wherever the Wenwang Ship arrives, all locals and officials must pay respects, slaughter pigs and sheep for sacrifices, and hold grand festivals to honor the spirit of King Wen in heaven.” (Image and text provided by Donglong Temple)
A view inside Donglong Temple
Donglong Temple Golden Archway
