Tienhou Temple (Matsu Temple)

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:Eva隨手拍

Photo:Eva隨手拍

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:Eva隨手拍

Photo:Eva隨手拍

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟

Photo:陳美吟
Photo:Eva隨手拍
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:Eva隨手拍
Photo:陳美吟
Photo:陳美吟
Located in Lukang, Tienhou Temple (Matsu Temple) is another large and unique architected structure in town. The temple underwent reconstruction in 1936 and till now, it is fully accessible for guests and tourists. It was said that the Matsu statue in this temple was brought to Taiwan by a general back in the Qing Dynasty. The locals call the statue of Matsu “The Black-Faced Matsu” as after years of incense smoke have covered over her original contrast.

Although it may be confused as a Buddhist temple, Matsu temple is actually a Daoist temple dedicated to a popular Taiwanese folk story of the sea. The temple is much better preserved and popular than other temples in Lukang. It is recommended that when visitors reaches the main temple holding the Black Faced Matsu statue, also take a minute to see the four little statues on the gates, each figure are said to represent 4 of the greatest pleasures in life such as “ear-picking”, “back scratching”, “yawning” and “nose-picking”. Also check out the front of the temple for a cool display of old weapons.

The area around the temple is pedestrian only and great crowds gather here during the weekends as a great market filled with vendors and local Taiwanese snacks are available, offering guests and tourists a festive atmosphere rather than a tourist location.

Kevin L.

Directions:

Directions
From Taipei
1. United Highway Bus directly to Lukang from Taipei Bus Station, departs every hour.
2. By railways take train to Changhua station, catch taxi to Lukang (Lugang)
From Taichung
1. Take bus to Lukang (Lugang) directly at 179 Fushing Rd. Sec.4, Taichung City

Near Attractions

Lukang Old Street

Lukang Longshan Temple