Sanliao Bay Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple is where the ancestors of Sanliaowan settled after crossing the sea with Zheng Chenggong to cultivate the land. To ensure a safe journey across the sea, they invited the statue of the Qiansui God from the Li Clan for protection. In gratitude for the divine power of Qiansui, they initially started to build a grass hut and a public house for worship. Donglong Temple is designed in traditional Minnan architectural style, and its main deities include the Qiansui Gods Li, Wen, Wu, Chi and the Emperor Baosheng. Inside the temple, there are also two permanently stationed royal boats, one made of wood and the other of copper, which were established in 1976. The copper royal boat is the only Quanzhou-style ancient sailing ship in Taiwan. The craftsmanship of the sailors and ship housing is exquisite, with figures artistically portrayed, showcasing significant folk art value. The royal boat culture originated from the Donggang River basin in Pingtung. To promote the unique culture of the hometown of the King, the temple has set up three major themed halls in the cultural center on the third and fourth floors beside Donglong Temple: the Museum of King Worship, the Heroes of Water Margin Museum, and the Ritual Cultural Museum, demonstrating the strength and beauty of religion. The lively "Sending the Royal Boat" event is held every three years to escort "Wen Wangye" on the royal ship for a heavenly巡狩 (xún shǎo, celestial inspection). The wooden royal boat, known as the "Wen Wang Boat," sets sail on the first day of the 11th lunar month, which marks the birthday of the Qiansui God. First, the boat is "moved" around the village for worship, then it is "launched" for cremation. Believers believe that after the celestial inspection, "Wen Wangye" reports back to the Jade Emperor before returning to the temple to maintain its presence, becoming a famous religious cultural activity in Taiwan!
