Dali Tiangong Temple (Caoling Qingyun Temple) Introduction
Dali Tiangong Temple, also known as Qingyun Temple, is referred to as the "spiritual fortress of the ancestors" and is recognized as the first victory of the Lanyang area. Located in a fishing village beside the coastal highway in Yilan County, it primarily worships the Jade Emperor (Tiangong), who was brought from Zhangzhou, and has historically been closely linked to the development of the Lanyang Plain. The temple has witnessed the cultural development of the local people in Yilan and remains a vital center of faith for residents today. This century-old temple features a complex architectural design and a grand presence, with lush Caoling Mountain at its back and the vast blue Pacific Ocean facing it. Visitors can even see Guishan Island floating on the sea in the distance. The geographic setting is beautiful and the scenery is magnificent, drawing many tourists who come specifically to admire the views. Since its establishment in the 16th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1836), Dali Tiangong Temple has undergone numerous renovations. The external towers are rising into the clouds, while the interior is adorned with splendid carvings and paintings. The ninth day of the first lunar month each year marks a local festival, attracting a continuous stream of devotees from various regions. The site known as "Dali Tidal Watching" was once listed as one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Lanyang." After worship and prayer, visitors can enjoy a distant view of Guishan Island from the temple's platforms. On clear days, the scene of the azure sea and blue sky is breathtaking, while rainy days offer a misty landscape with the towers enveloped in rain. Particularly during the northeast monsoon season, the coastal waves are turbulent and magnificent, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. At the temple entrance, there are also many small shops selling local delicacies such as baby mullet soup, four types of fish, and stone flower jelly, making them must-try treats for devotees and travelers visiting the temple.
