Fangliao Baozhong Temple (Yimin Temple)

Built in the winter of 1788 during the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong Emperor's reign, it can be considered the main temple for Yimin (righteous people) in Taiwan. The temple enshrines the Three Mountain Kings, Shennong Emperor (Huangdi), and Guanyin Bodhisattva. Annually, on the 20th day of the 7th lunar month, the Yimin Festival activities are presided over by rotating head incense masters from the fifteen major local villages. For centuries, it has been a significant festival and spiritual center for Hakka people in Hsinchu. In 1788, when Lin Shuangwen rebelled, the remains of the Yimin (righteous people) who protected their homeland (including indigenous people, Hakka, and Quanzhou people) were all buried directly behind the temple. Later, during the Dai Chaochun Incident in 1862, the loyal remains of Yimin were buried to the right rear of the temple. Emperor Qianlong, mindful of the Yimin's contributions in helping suppress the rebellion, first bestowed the title of 'Yiyong' (Brave and Righteous), then 'Huaizhong' (Cherishing Loyalty), and thrice granted an imperial plaque inscribed 'Baozhong' (Commending Loyalty), hence the temple was renamed 'Baozhong Pavilion'.