Located in the Baishatun settlement of Tongxiao Township, Miaoli County, "Gongtian Temple" is one of the most famous Mazu temples along Taiwan's Coast Line and a sacred hall in the hearts of Mazu believers nationwide. It enshrines the Heavenly Empress (Tianshang Shengmu), affectionately called "Baishatun Mazu" by her devotees. For over a century, Mazu has not only been the spiritual pillar for local fishermen and farmers but has also become a renowned center of religious culture across Taiwan due to its unique pilgrimage traditions.
Gongtian Palace(Baishatun Mazu Temple)
Unlike the solid carved statues commonly seen in general temples, the Baishatun Mazu presiding over Gongtian Temple is a "soft-body statue." This means the joints of the Mazu statue's arms and legs are movable. This design allows Mazu to sit securely in the palanquin during the long annual pilgrimage, showcasing the ingenuity and thoughtfulness of the early pioneers who carved the statue.
Many believers come to worship and pray to Mazu for peace and safety.
When speaking of Gongtian Temple, one must mention the Mazu palanquin affectionately nicknamed the "Pink Supercar" by believers. It earned this name because its roof is covered with a pink rain tarp, and it frequently displays astonishing speed and nimble turns during the pilgrimage. Carrying Mazu's compassion, this lightweight palanquin leads tens of thousands of believers forward every year.
There are many local snacks around the temple.
Gongtian Temple's annual "Pilgrimage on Foot" to Chaotian Temple in Beigang, Yunlin, is Taiwan's most unique religious event. The most magical part is that this nearly 400-kilometer journey has "absolutely no fixed route or schedule"! Where to stop for a rest and which road to take are entirely guided by the on-site will of Mazu's palanquin. This experience of "Mazu leading the way," full of unknowns yet incredibly reassuring, attracts countless people every year to feel the power of miracles and faith.
Mazu statue at Gongtian Palace
Unlike magnificent, glittering grand temples in cities, Gongtian Temple is hidden in the rustic Baixi Village settlement, very close to the azure Taiwan Strait. It retains the deep human warmth of a traditional farming and fishing village. Vendors on the old street in front of the temple always greet people enthusiastically, allowing visiting pilgrims to not only find peace of mind but also experience the most authentic local warmth of Taiwan.
People placed their clothes and offerings, praying to Mazu to ward off disasters and misfortunes.
