Baohu Temple (Tiandi Hall) Goddess Temple Introduction
Bao Hu Gong Tian Di Tang Di Mu Temple is located in Puli Township, Nantou County. It is a famous and historically significant Di Mu (Earth Mother) temple in Taiwan and serves as an important center of worship for the Di Mu deity in Daoism across the country. Di Mu Niang Niang, also known as Hou Tu Niang Niang, is one of the "Four Emperors" in Daoism and governs the balance of yin and yang, procreation, and the earth's mountains and rivers, symbolizing the love and protection of the Earth Mother. Bao Hu Gong Tian Di Tang Di Mu Temple features grand architecture built on a hillside, facing Jin Ying Mountain, with a serene surrounding environment. In front of the temple, there is a Bagua Nine Dragon Pond, which incorporates both feng shui and aesthetics. In addition to the main hall, the temple has added halls for Qian Yuan, Tai Yang, Tai Yin, and Shen Nong, showcasing exquisite carvings and grandeur. During the 1999 Jiji earthquake, the temple's structure remained intact, with only some halls experiencing damage due to foundation issues. It underwent extensive renovations and reconstruction, supported by philanthropic individuals such as the well-known entrepreneur Shih Chun-Jung, restoring the temple to its magnificent appearance. Bao Hu Gong Tian Di Tang is not only a center for religious worship but also actively promotes charitable endeavors, including land donation for road construction, disaster relief, and scholarships, earning the respect of the local community. Every year on the 18th day of the 10th lunar month, which celebrates the birthday of Di Mu, a steady stream of worshippers visits the temple, making the temple fair a significant religious and cultural event in Puli.
