Eighteen Kings Temple

Regarding the origin of the Eighteen Kings Temple, there is a moving story: Legend has it that in the mid-Qing Dynasty, seventeen merchants from Tangshan (mainland China) sailed across the sea to Taiwan. Tragically, they met with misfortune during the journey, and their loyal dog on board also died alongside its masters. Upon discovery, the villagers built a joint tomb for the dog and its seventeen masters. It is said that the Eighteen Kings enjoyed smoking, so devotees offer cigarettes as worship, which is a rather interesting phenomenon in the temple. After nightfall, a multitude of worshippers gather, and the incense offerings are abundant, creating a spectacular sight. People who frequently visit the North Coast must be deeply impressed by the Zongzi (sticky rice dumpling) shops around the Eighteen Kings Temple and Shimen Arch Scenic Area! Speaking of Shimen Zongzi, another interesting legend must be mentioned: it is said that the residents of Shimen District used zongzi for worship, and subsequently, due to remarkable spiritual manifestations, devotees flocked from all directions, and the temple's offerings flourished, making Shimen Zongzi famous. Zongzi are a traditional food for the Dragon Boat Festival, yet in this area, the aroma of zongzi lingers throughout the year. From its origins as an offering, zongzi has evolved into a famous local specialty snack, renowned far and wide, with queues forming for pre-orders every year before the Dragon Boat Festival. The popularity of Shimen Zongzi is most spectacular right before the Dragon Boat Festival, mainly because they are affordable, made with substantial and natural ingredients, resulting in a refreshing, non-greasy, fragrant, chewy, and delicious taste, with great attention paid to food hygiene and safety. The unique aroma of bamboo leaves combined with the rich, dark appearance of the zongzi offers a distinct flavor, making it an auspicious and delicious Shimen specialty.