Jinban Jingtian Temple Introduction
The culturally rich Jīn Bǎn Jìng Tiānhòu Temple has a history of over a hundred years. It is said to have been built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty by the notorious pirate Cai Qian, seeking the blessings of the deities. The temple was later repaired by the residents during the Tongzhi period, and it underwent four renovations in 1919, 1949, 1979, and 1984, earning it the nickname "Iron Plate Tiānhòu Temple." The temple features ancient architectural styles, showcasing the carved beams and painted rafters of the Eastern Fujian volcanic wall style. The interior is constructed of Fuzhou fir, employing a dougong bracket system, with clearly visible structural components such as columns, beams, rafters, and brace pieces. The roof belongs to a projecting eave architectural method, and the main entrance was originally a board wall facade but was later replaced with a brick wall to protect the wooden structure from long-term weathering damage. The temple houses various deities, including Tian Shang Sheng Mu, General Chen, Hua Guang Da Di, Lin Shui Fu Ren, and Fu De Zheng Shen. The deities’ statues and the niches are intricately and traditionally crafted. The most famous feature of this Tiānhòu Temple is the exquisite statue of Mazu, portraying her as a youthful figure, known as the "Young Maiden Mazu." Additionally, two side niches present a rare "Temple within a Temple" form, exuding a simple and elegant atmosphere. Although the temple is not large, it offers stunning views of the ocean. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the square in front of the Jīn Bǎn Jìng Tiānhòu Temple serves as a gathering place for villagers. Each year, a warm "Burning Tower" reunion event takes place during the festival. The Burning Tower tradition has been passed down for over a century in the Eastern Fujian region, and currently, it is only found in Ren'ai Village, Matsu. The towers range from about 1 to 3 meters in height and are mostly constructed from broken tiles. A gap is left at the top for fuel placement, where waste materials are burned during the Mid-Autumn festival, symbolizing gratitude, respect, and the idea of eliminating the old to welcome the new.
