Sanliao Bay Donglong Temple Introduction
Donglong Temple was established by the ancestors of Sanliao Bay who came to Taiwan by sea during the time of Zheng Chenggong. In order to ensure safe passage across the ocean, they invited the deity Li Fuzu for protection. As a result of the deity's immense power, people created the first worship hall. Donglong Temple features traditional Minnan architectural design and enshrines various deities, including Li, Wen, Wu, and Chi Fuzu and Baosheng Dadi. The temple also houses two king boats, one made of wood and the other of copper, which have been permanently stationed at the temple since 1976. The copper king boat is the only Quanzhou-style ancient sailing vessel in Taiwan, with finely detailed carvings of sailors and ship dwellings, showcasing vibrant figures and expressions, reflecting its significant value in folk art. The belief in the king boat culture originates from the Donggang River basin in Pingtung. To promote this unique culture from the hometown of the deity, the temple has established three main exhibition halls on the third and fourth floors of the cultural center next to Donglong Temple, including a museum of Wang Ye belief, a Water Margin heroes exhibition, and a customs relic hall, demonstrating the power and beauty of religion. The lively "Sending the King Boat" activity is held every three years to honor "Wen Wang Ye," who is sent off to patrol on behalf of heaven aboard a wooden king boat known as the "Wen Wang Boat." This event takes place on the first day of the 11th month of the lunar calendar, coinciding with the birthday of Wen Fuzu, starting with a "boat relocation" ceremony around the village for worship, followed by a "sailing" for cremation. Believers believe that "Wen Wang Ye" will report back to the Jade Emperor after his heavenly patrol before returning to the temple to preside over, making it one of Taiwan's most famous religious cultural activities!
