Guandu Temple

Guandu Temple was founded around 1712 AD, primarily dedicated to Mazu. It is the oldest Mazu temple in northern Taiwan, originally known as Lingshan Temple, located at the summit of Lingshan Mountain. Legend has it that in 1895 AD, three old banyan trees at the temple entrance withered and died on the same night. Residents believed Mazu was warning them of impending disaster. Indeed, shortly after, the Japanese army occupied Guandu, burning and killing everywhere. However, the residents, having been forewarned, were able to escape the calamity. Guandu Temple is ancient, and its dragon pillars, stone lions, and wall carvings at the temple entrance are all exquisitely crafted. The door gods, in particular, are depicted in bas-relief, offering a distinctly different aesthetic from typical painted versions. Inside the main hall, the ceiling's caisson, dougong brackets, and beams are richly adorned with sculptures and paintings, making them very beautiful. The statue of Mazu, surrounded by many legends, sits serenely in the central shrine, exuding a benevolent aura. This creates a strong contrast with the formidable appearances of her generals, Qianliyan (All-seeing Eye) and Shunfeng'er (All-hearing Ear). To the right of Guandu Temple is an ancient Buddha Cave, approximately 80 meters long. At the entrance, there is a 'Cave-Guardian Treasure Urn' believed to suppress all evil. Inside the cave, statues of the 28 Heavenly Kings line both sides, solemn and majestic. Further inside, there is a statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva with a thousand arms and a thousand eyes, symbolizing her boundless compassion for saving all sentient beings. Passing behind the statue leads to the exit of the ancient Buddha Cave, where visitors can enjoy views of the river estuary. The Rear Mountain Park, built along the slope, is dotted with pavilions and towers, offering excellent panoramic views of the Tamsui River and Mount Guanyin. The riverside embankment next to the Rear Mountain Park parking lot is an ideal spot for enjoying the cool breeze, taking a stroll, or chatting. The mangrove swamps are close by, and occasionally waterbirds fly past, creating a pleasant and leisurely atmosphere.