Dialogues between Historic Sites and Culture
Shuixian Temple
The Intriguing Story behind Xingang's 'Three Flowers'
Three sprawling art projects inspired by Chinaberry, hibiscus and morning glories and crafted with homegrown Koji Pottery and Chien-Nien techniques constantly draw the attention of those passing the Beigang River embankments in Bantou Village, which is the location of Chiayi kiln (Koji Pottery) and also a cradle of leading temple-rooftop artisans. Due to the selfless dedication and advocacy of Chen Zhong-zheng, owner of the Bantaoyao Craft Studio of Jiao-Zhi Pottery & Chien-Nien, woodcuts maestro Huang Shui-shui and Dingciyuan Rural Cultural Village's owner Chen Ming-hui, who are referred to as "the three fools" by fellow villagers, the declining Bantou Village was revamped in just a few years with an extra touch of regional arts, notably Chien-Nien and Koji Pottery. In a successful example of industry-driven community makeover, Bantou was transformed into a farming village infused with culture and arts, as evident in the delicate, crisply shaped Chien-Nien Chinaberries that dance in the breeze amid an addictive fragrance.
Shuixian Temple
Built in 1739, Shuixian Temple is a national historic site dedicated to the Venerable Lords of Water Immortals (a.k.a. Shui-Xian-Zun-Wang) led by Dayu, among other guardian deities of seafaring, namely Xiang Yu, Wu Zixu, Qu Yuan and Lu Ban. The ingenious leverage system that keeps the temple's front roof balanced a top the eaves is a must-see for architecture experts.
Singang Incense Artistic Culture Garden
Taiwan's first museum dedicated to the culture of the incense industry, Singang Incense Artistic Culture Garden aims to preserve traditional incense-making skills while promoting the incense arts. A facility of regional, industrial, cultural and informative nature, the venue guarantees visitors a memorable experience through interesting DIY incense-making programs.
Liuxing Temple
Also known as the "Third Mazu Temple," this religious structure is every bit as famous structure is every bit as famous as the Xingang Fengtian Temple and Beigang Chaotian Temple that represent the first and second Mazu, respectively. This elegantly palatial temple is a county-designated historic site that features many artistically significant must-sees, including the exquisitely painted and carved left and right corridors and wings, as well as the bell tower and the octagonal celling dome of the main hall.
Source of Article: Culture and Tourism Bureau of Chiayi County
City | Chiayi County |
Contact Information | Shuixian Temple:05-7811751 Singang Incense Artistic Culture Garden:05-3747899 Liuxing Temple:05-3771680 |
Location | Chiayi County |
Transportation | Exit National Freeway 1at Chiayi Interchange (264.3 km); take County Highway 159, drive toward Xingang to reach Xingang Township; you will arrive at your destination(s) from there. Datan Ecological&Scenic Park→8min→Fengtain Temple→10min→Old River Channel Cultural Center of Bantou Community→1min→Dingcaiyuan Rural Cultural Village→3min→Bantaoyao Craft Studio of Jiao-Zhi Pottery & Chien-Nien→5min→Bantaoyao Craff Studio of Jiao-Zhi Pottery→5min→Shuixian Temple→12min→Singang Incense Artistic Culture Garden→10min→Liuxing Temple |
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