Fengtian Temple Introduction
Fong Tian Temple in Xinguang Township is a designated historic site in the county, originally built on Ben Gang Street in Zhu Luo County. Constructed in the 39th year of the Kangxi reign (1700 AD) by local residents, it primarily worships Mazu of Meizhou, and was initially known as Tianhou Temple. In the 4th year of the Jiaqing reign (1799 AD), the temple was destroyed by floods from Ben Gang Creek and was temporarily relocated to Mayuanliao, which is today's Xinguang. Local residents later pooled resources to rebuild the temple, and it was completed in the 17th year of the Jiaqing reign (1812 AD), officially named "Fong Tian Temple." In addition to the main hall dedicated to Mazu, the rear hall worships Guanyin and also includes worship of Wenshu and Puxian, with Fude Zhengshen on the left and Zhusheng Niangniang and eight female deities on the right. The left and right wings also feature worship of Wenchang Dijun and Guan Sheng Dijun. The two protective dragon halls on either side honor Ben Gang Cheng Huang Ye and benefactor Wang De-lu. There is also a newly constructed Lingxiao Hall. The front hall with three openings prominently features stone carvings, with a pair of intricately carved stone pillars on both the front and back eaves. The front eaves feature the Eight Immortals coiling dragon pillars, while the rear eaves have flower and bird pillars, all dating back to the Japanese colonial period, showcasing lively and precious historical craftsmanship. The front gate is adorned with colorful paintings depicting the Ascending and Descending Dragon Gate deities, and both side walls are blocked with stone, a rare style in typical temple architecture. Additionally, Fong Tian Temple has three pairs of stone lions at its entrance, which, despite over a century of weathering, remain green and vibrant, highly eye-catching. Fong Tian Temple also features a golden plaque honoring Emperor Hirohito of Japan, reportedly installed during the Japanese rule to reinforce the loyalty of Taiwanese people. After World War II, many similar plaques in various temples were destroyed, but the plaque at Fong Tian Temple was preserved because someone took it home as a keepsake. It remains bright and golden to this day, and under the light, one can see the exquisite chrysanthemum watermarked pattern on it. In addition to these architectural features and historical artifacts, Fong Tian Temple is bustling with activity year-round, attracting crowds, and the New Year's Day first incense offering and Mazu pilgrimage each year are grand events that bring immense business opportunities to the surrounding neighborhoods.
