Nuannuan Ander Temple

Attraction Introduction: Located in Nuannuan District, Keelung City, Ander Temple primarily worships Mazu, the Goddess of Heaven. It is a century-old temple renowned for its flourishing incense. The most distinctive feature of the temple is its well-preserved, century-old wooden door god statues, weighing 60 kilograms, which are the only ones remaining in Taiwan, possessing immense cultural and historical value. The 'Stele Forest of Ancient and Modern Luminaries' directly opposite bears witness to Nuannuan's history of flourishing literary arts and the emergence of numerous talents, also demonstrating the local residents' emphasis on the preservation of culture and faith. Attraction Features: Although Ander Temple has undergone multiple renovations, it still preserves many precious artifacts, such as the stone-paved temple courtyard and a pair of stone lions in front of the temple, which are relics from the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty, silently narrating Nuannuan's century-old history. The couplet on both sides of the temple gate, 'Brush Mountain bows to the North, Stream flows East,' describes the unique phenomenon of the Nuannuan Stream's waters suddenly turning eastward as they merge with the Keelung River. Whether it's the ancient artifacts, the Stele Forest of Ancient and Modern Luminaries, or the couplets, all reflect Ander Temple's profound geographical wisdom and folk culture. As a local center of faith, Ander Temple not only serves religious functions but also acts as a spiritual space where residents' lives, prayers, and historical memories intertwine, showcasing a unique atmosphere of coexisting culture and faith. Recommended Activities: When visiting Nuannuan Ander Temple, in addition to paying respects and thanking Mazu for her blessings, you can also appreciate and observe the ancient artifacts and architecture preserved since the Qing Jiaqing era, 'from the outside in.' From the moment you step into the temple courtyard, you'll see stone steles and pillars inscribed with calligraphy by ancient and modern luminaries such as Yu Youren, He Yingqin, Bai Chongxi, Cao Jingde, and others. Entering the main hall, you'll find a grand three-section hall divided by stone pillars, enshrining three Mazu statues from innermost to outermost: San Ma (Third Mazu), Er Ma (Second Mazu), and Da Ma (First Mazu). Among them, Er Ma is a 'soft-bodied Mazu' with movable joints, which is now a rare sight. Also present are a century-old incense burner from Jingdezhen, a famous porcelain hub in China, and figures of foreigners dressed in Han Chinese attire, hidden on the crossbeams of the ceiling. Friends who enjoy studying ancient artifacts, historical stories, legends, or appreciating calligraphy and paintings will find plenty to savor here. Nearby Recommendations: If you appreciate Taiwan's traditional religious culture, we recommend you embark on a 'pilgrimage journey' in Keelung. Start your morning at Nuannuan Ander Temple, then proceed to nearby temples such as Shuangsheng Earth God Temple, Liudu Daityan Temple, Shiqiuling Pingan Temple, Qing'an Temple, and Dianji Temple. After your visits, step out of the temple gates to indulge in delicious food at the night market, bringing your spiritual journey to a perfect close.