Longtian Temple Introduction
It is said that Lord Lei, a deity from the Nine Heavens Thunder Department, was sent during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty to save people on Earth. In 1947 (the 36th year of the Republic of China), he was again sent by the Jade Emperor of the Nine Heavens to Taiwan's Dalin to help all beings. In 1982 (the 71st year of the Republic of China), Longtian Temple was seriously dilapidated due to its age, and with the increasing number of visitors, the local residents initiated a reconstruction. On November 10 of the same year, at the hour of the Rabbit, the ground was broken, and the work was completed after three years and two months. The newly renovated Longtian Temple is magnificent and radiant, and the consecration ceremony was held at the hour of the Rabbit on November 3, 1986 (the 75th year of the Republic of China). Residents of Yihe Village in Dalin Town have long believed that Lord Lei can bless villagers with health and abundant crops. Every year, on the 14th day of the 8th lunar month, the celebration for Lord Lei's birthday and the everlasting spirit of the White Crane Boy is held at Longtian Temple. Villagers prepare offerings and gather at Longtian Temple to worship. There is also a stage built in front of the temple, with drums and gongs making a lively noise, making it a rare grand event in the quiet countryside. In front of Longtian Temple, there is a century-old well, with clear water that has never run dry and is incredibly sweet; it has historically been an important source of drinking water for local residents. During the Dragon Boat Festival, villagers rush to draw "noon water." Locals believe that noon water can cure various ailments, and it is said that the noon water drawn from this ancient well in front of Longtian Temple can be stored for a long time without spoilage. Many people use it for brewing tea, healing, cleansing, and even for talismans, among other uses. When the Longtian Temple was rebuilt, this ancient well was the focal point, with a dragon-shaped fountain sculpted above it, representing the local dragon vein. Visitors who come during the Dragon Boat Festival can witness villagers gathering in front of the dragon head statue, eagerly drawing noon water, creating a fascinating spectacle. (Source: Cultural Resources Geographic Information System)
