Matsu Jinsha Temple Introduction
The Matsu Jen Kong Temple, also known as the Matsu Harbor Temple, is the most prestigious and bustling temple in the Matsu region, embodying the religious beliefs of the local residents. Built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, it features over 4,000 dou-shaped wooden blocks at the column heads and has undergone renovations approximately every 20 years. The current temple structure, constructed in 2002, is a palace-style building that is grand and solemn, completed by artisans from both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Its elaborate decorations include dragon pillar stone carvings and relief sculptures of guardian gods. It is said that the stone coffin in front of the altar houses the sacred body of Matsu. Every year on Matsu's lunar birthday, grand celebrations and processions take place, filled with lights and the sound of firecrackers, making it a significant local festivity. In March 2009, Matsu-born artist and mountaineer Li Xiaoshi took a statue of Matsu up to Mount Everest, making it the first deity to reach the summit. This statue is now enshrined in the Matsu Jen Kong Temple for devotees to worship. The Matsu Jen Kong Temple serves as the guardian deity of Matsu and the belief center for island residents, who flock to the temple for blessings. If you visit Nangan, don't forget to come here and pray for peace! In Nangan, the residents of Matsu Village tell the story of Matsu, who, upon hearing of her father's shipwreck, threw herself into the sea to save him but tragically drowned in the turbulent waves. Her body washed ashore in Matsu Village and was later found and buried by the residents, who honored her filial piety with a beautifully carved stone coffin. In her lifetime, Matsu was a virtuous person and, benefiting from the spirit of the land, ascended to heaven on the ninth day of the ninth month. During the Ming Dynasty, she was titled "Tianfei," and in the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, she was upgraded to "Tianhou," which is another name for the Celestial Mother, leading to the temples dedicated to her being named after Tianhou. One of the must-visit landmarks in Matsu is the Matsu Sword Monument, located not far from the Matsu Jen Kong Temple. Also known as "The Sword of Matsu," this upright monument exudes a strong masculine energy. It once served as an important spiritual fortress in the defense area and has now become a prominent tourist landmark. Be sure to take photos when you visit Nangan, Matsu Village!
