Polar Palace Introduction
Dapu Beiji Temple was established in the 25th year of the Qianlong era (AD 1760) when Zhangzhou immigrants brought the incense of the Xuantian Emperor to what was then known as "Hou Dapu Village" in Dapu Township, considering it their permanent residence. After numerous manifestations of divine power, Mr. Huang A-xie, the then village chief, initiated the construction of a small temple and carved a golden statue for worship, which has lasted for more than 240 years. During this time, the villagers and gentry have repeatedly vowed to renovate the temple, allowing the incense to continue, making it the center of faith for the residents of Dapu Township. In the 73rd year of the Republic of China, the Beiji Temple Management Committee deemed that the beams and pillars of the temple were infested with insects and structurally unstable, and thus decided to rebuild and raise funds for construction. Beiji Temple is located adjacent to the main street of the city and serves as the center of faith for the local residents. The architecture is traditional and has a distinct flavor compared to modern temples, with a bustling atmosphere from numerous worshippers daily. The third day of the third lunar month every year is an important festive event, bustling with activity. The main deity of Beiji Temple is the Xuantian Emperor, along with the worship of the Shennong Emperor, Jade Emperor, the Earth God, Taishang Laojun, the Goddess of Birth, Marshal of the Central Altar, Matsu, and Guanyin Bodhisattva. In front of Beiji Temple, there are two pairs of large stone lions, with those hanging copper coins or stepping on balls being male lions; the ones stepping on small lions are female lions. According to folklore, those wishing for children should first touch the male lion and then the female lion, symbolizing the desire for offspring (求子, "qiuzi").
