Shanbian Mazu Temple

Because nothing was written down in the early days, the exact origins of Shanbian Mazu can no longer be traced. For a long time, Shanbian Mazu has followed the 'yearly incense-burner host' system: each year a host is chosen by casting divination blocks, and the host welcomes Mazu into their home to worship her there. This form of 'a deity without a temple' is completely different from that of the great temples. Since 1953, the 42nd year of the Republic of China, Shanbian Mazu has shared the same palanquin with the Mazu of Baishatun Gongtian Temple every year on the walking pilgrimage to Beigang Chaotian Temple, without a break for more than seventy years. In 2013, Shanbian Mazu was ritually installed in a temporary temple, but the 'host's Mazu' is still kept in the home of that year's host. Today the community is working together to build a permanent temple, so that this Mazu will finally have a home of her own.