Wanhe Temple

Wanhe Temple (also known as Litoudian Mazu Temple), first built in 1684, is the oldest temple in Taichung City. It is named after the 'Litoudian Street' (now within Nantun District) where shops making plows and other farm tools gathered in the past. Dedicated to Meizhou Goddess Mazu (commonly known as Mazu or Oldest Mazu), it is one of Taichung City's four major Mazu temples. Wanhe Temple exhibits the consistent characteristics of Taiwanese temples, with complex and intricate carvings. Since its completion in the fifth year of Emperor Yongzheng's reign (Qing Dynasty), it has undergone renovations, exterior wall painting, and roof ceramic tile cutting and pasting in the first year of Emperor Daoguang's reign, the 12th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign, and in the 52nd, 55th, and 65th years of the Republic of China (1963, 1966, 1976), giving the temple a brand new look. Wanhe Temple is a three-hall style building with left and right wing rooms and the main Mazu Hall, where Mazu is primarily worshipped. The rear hall is dedicated to Guanyin, the east wing of the rear hall is primarily dedicated to Emperor Guan, and the west wing is dedicated to Shennong, all of whom are objects of worship for devout men and women. In the wing rooms of the rear hall, there is a century-old palanquin, meticulously crafted and resplendent. An ancient tripod from the fifth year of Emperor Guangxu's reign (Qing Dynasty) and an old bell from the twentieth year of Emperor Daoguang's reign (Qing Dynasty) are placed beside the stone steps, spontaneously evoking a sense of tranquility.