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By experiencing culture, we engage in a conversation with the heart of a country. The Temple culture and Mazu pilgrimage of Taiwan

Updated: May 2

In Taiwan, temples are not only the center of religious belief but also the hub of culture and society. These temples carry rich historical memories and pass on traditional culture through various festivals and activities. Among them, the Matsu pilgrimage is one of the most representative activities. It not only demonstrates the Taiwanese people's devout belief in Matsu but also reflects Taiwan's unique temple culture.


Taiwan's temple architecture is diverse, from ornate palace-style temples to simple rural temples, each with its unique history and story. Temples are not only places for religious activities but also the belief centers and social places for community residents. Many temples are surrounded by night markets or food stalls, making temples a part of people's daily lives.

The Matsu pilgrimage is one of the largest religious activities in Taiwan, attracting millions of believers every year. Among them, the Matsu pilgrimage from Baishatun Gongtian Temple in Miaoli County to Beigang Chaotian Temple in Yunlin County is an important annual religious event in Taiwan.


2025 Baishatun Matsu Pilgrimage Schedule:

  • Setting up the Flag: April 28th

  • Placing the Palanquin: May 1st

  • Departure: May 2nd

  • Arrival at Beigang: May 3rd

  • Incense Offering: May 4th

  • Return to the Temple: May 11th

  • Opening the Furnace: May 22nd


Features of the Baishatun Matsu Pilgrimage:

  • "Pink Supercar": The Matsu palanquin from Baishatun, known as the "Pink Supercar" due to its pink appearance, is the most eye-catching focus of the pilgrimage.

  • "Unfixed Route": The biggest feature of the Baishatun Matsu pilgrimage is that its route is not fixed, relying entirely on the guidance of the Matsu palanquin, full of unknowns and surprises.

  • "Rapid March": The Baishatun Matsu pilgrimage is a very long journey, and there are often rapid march situations.

  • "Pilgrims": The believers participating in the Baishatun Matsu pilgrimage are called "pilgrims," and they follow Matsu's footsteps with devout steps, walking through Taiwan's country roads and city streets.

  • "Warm Hospitality from Residents Along the Way": Residents along the way voluntarily provide food and rest places, allowing believers to receive support and encouragement.


The Matsu pilgrimage also promotes community unity and cooperation. Residents along the way voluntarily provide food and rest places, allowing believers to receive support and encouragement. This spirit of mutual assistance is one of the important characteristics of Taiwanese society.


Taiwan's temple culture and Matsu pilgrimage are not only religious phenomena but also important components of Taiwanese culture. They carry rich historical memories and pass on traditional culture through various festivals and activities. If you have the opportunity to come to Taiwan, take a walk in the temple and feel the unique charm of Taiwan's temple culture and Matsu pilgrimage.


To follow the ceremony's progress of the Baishatun Matsu Pilgrimage and see its current location in real time, tune in to the live stream on YouTube via Baishatung Matsu Internet TV at: https://www.youtube.com/@baishatun_tv.


 
 
 

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