Jinban Jingtianhou Temple Introduction
The culturally rich temple, Jinbanjing Mazu Temple, boasts a history of over a hundred years. It was said to have been built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing dynasty by the notorious pirate Cai Qian in hopes of divine protection. The residents repaired it during the Tongzhi period, and it has undergone four renovations in 1919, 1949, 1979, and 1984, also being referred to as "Iron Plate Mazu Temple." The temple features ancient and elegant architecture, retaining the sculpted beams and painted rafters typical of Eastern Fujian's fire-block wall construction. It is built with Fuzhou cedar, employing a bracket system, making structural components like columns, beams, rafters, purlins, bracket sets, and base blocks distinctly visible. The roof follows a projecting eave architectural style, and the main entrance, originally a boarded wall facade, was later modified to a brick wall to protect the wooden structure from long-term weathering damage. Inside the temple, deities such as Mazu, General Chen Weiwu, Emperor Huaguang, Lady of the Water, and the God of Wealth are worshipped. The statues and niches are crafted in a rustic and delicate manner. The most famous aspect of this Mazu Temple is the statue of Mazu, which retains a graceful appearance, renowned as the unique "Young Mazu" statue. The side niches also display a rare "temple within a temple" format, exuding a simple elegance. Though not large, it offers an unbeatable sea view, making it a beautiful scenic spot. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the square in front of the Iron Plate Mazu Temple serves as a gathering place for villagers. Each year, a warm community event called "Tower Burning" is held, a tradition that has been passed down for over a hundred years in Eastern Fujian, currently existing only in Ren'ai Village, Matsu. The tower ranges in height from about 1 to 3 meters and is mostly constructed using broken tiles. A notch is left at the top for fuel, where waste is burned during the tower burning, signifying appreciation, respect, and the intent to eliminate old items and misfortunes.
