Tainan Historic Site Tour: Tainan Grand Matsu Temple

Visiting the ancient capital of Tainan, how can you not explore its historic sites? This time, we are visiting the bustling Central and Western District, home to the nationally designated historic site, the Tainan Grand Matsu Temple, to pay respects to Matsu. The Grand Matsu Temple was originally the Ningjing Prince's Mansion. Its grand architecture is a classic example of Eastern architectural craftsmanship and is currently the only official Matsu temple in Taiwan. The temple's most distinctive feature is the lifelike, large-sized Matsu statue, which is said to have been made by a craftsman from Quanzhou, China, over 300 years ago. It is considered one of Taiwan's representative clay sculptures. From the outside, the Grand Matsu Temple appears small, but once inside, you will find it quite deep. In addition to the main deity, Matsu, many other gods are worshipped here. There is even a ritual of crawling under the palanquin for blessings. The devout worshippers and the solemn atmosphere make it feel very spiritual. The temple itself is rich in details, showcasing the essence of traditional craftsmanship. It is well worth a visit, and having a guided tour would make the experience even more enriching, allowing you to better understand the historical background. Moreover, the area around the historic site is also a hub for delicious snacks, ensuring you can enjoy both sightseeing and food.