Ciyun Temple

Houlong's "Ciyun Temple," established over 220 years ago, is the only Taoist temple in Miaoli County that preserves the most complete historical documents. Among all Mazu temples dedicated to the Heavenly Holy Mother registered with the government across Taiwan, it is one of the oldest and most well-organized Taoist temples. Established over 200 years ago, Ciyun Temple is Houlong's oldest temple. The abundance of ancient artifacts preserved within the temple also makes it preeminent among the many temples in the Houlong area, such as an ancient table from the Qianlong period and a plaque bearing the imperial seal of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, inscribed with "Achievement Equal to Heaven." Ciyun Temple faces south and is divided into a main hall and two side chambers. Mazu is enshrined in the center of the main hall, with Tudigong (Earth God) and Zhusheng Niangniang (Goddess of Childbirth) worshipped on the left and right sides, respectively. Its incense offerings are thriving. Every Lantern Festival, Ciyun Temple hosts the highly engaging "Shooting Cannon Castle" folk event. During the event, the temple hangs a miniature castle atop a ten-meter-long bamboo pole. Participants (shooters) throw self-ignited strings of firecrackers into the front and back gates of the castle, with victory awarded to those who trigger the pre-placed gunpowder explosion inside the castle. Winners receive prizes from the organizers.