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Nestled in the bustling heart of Taoyuan City lies a sacred and spiritually significant site shrouded in the smoke of incense — Ci Hu Gong (慈護宮). This place is not only the core of local belief but also a cultural historical hub where traditional culture and modern life are deeply intertwined. Entering the temple, a blend of billowing incense and a devout atmosphere fills the air, imparting a profound sense of spiritual tranquility. Rooted in a lineage of Mazu devotion spanning 300 years, Ci Hu Gong's history dates back to the reign of Emperor Kangxi in 1703 (42nd year of the Kangxi era), initially established when ancestral members of the You family brought a golden statue of Mazu from Wujie, Yilan. Through multiple reconstructions and relocations, the temple ultimately found its permanent home in Nammun, Taoyuan, becoming a vital religious center for southern Taoyuan. The streamlined yet solemn pilgrimage route within the temple features a reduction in the number of incense offering altars to two — the Heaven Emperor Altar and the Main Altar, symbolizing an emphasis on environmental consciousness and dignified reverence. Devotees begin by offering their first incense stick at the Heaven Emperor Altar, then proceed to the main hall to respectfully worship Goddess Mazu of the Heavens, followed by visits to venerate Deity of Land (Fuduo Zhengshen), God of Literature (Wenchang Dijun), and God of Matchmaking (Yuelao Shenjun) among others, finally returning to the Main Altar to conclude their ritualistic journey with a heartfelt offering. A sacred chamber gathering goddesses from afar, Ci Hu Gong reveres the principal deity Goddess Mazu and exhibits a unique "Mazu Sisters' Assembly," with subsidiary deity statues from diverse regions forming a spiritual sisterhood. This network of faith mirrors a cross-regional cultural exchange. In addition, the temple enshrines Bodhisattva Guanyin, the Wealth God, the Guardians of the Twelve Chinese Zodiac Years, and more. Whether seeking safety, fortune, or love, visitors are guaranteed to find personal blessings within this spiritual haven. The architectural elegance of Ci Hu Gong presents an enthralling encounter for both the eyes and history. Adorned with intricate details — the Three Immortals (Fuk, Lok, Shou) on the roof ridge, martial general statues in Jiaozhui porcelain style, and meticulously carved stone patterns, every element demonstrates the boundless charm of traditional craftsmanship. For photography enthusiasts, this is an exceptional site to capture historical aesthetic beauty. Combining tradition with technology to make faith more accessible, Ci Hu Gong incorporates an electronic divination interpretation system, allowing devotees to interpret their oracle stick results through modern means — a considerate and user-friendly approach. This integration of tradition and innovation exemplifies how faith connects seamlessly to daily life. Each April, the temple transforms into a jubilant festival core during the annual Mazu Birthday Cultural Festival. Events include the parading of the deity’s palanquin, thousands of people walking beneath the palanquin (chasing the sedan), and lantern lighting rituals for blessings, continuously drawing throngs of worshippers and tourists to engage with the vitality and magic of Mazu culture. Ci Hu Gong: A Temple and a Journey of the Soul Beyond being a sacred domain protecting its worshippers, Ci Hu Gong bears centuries of cultural and historical significance. Whether seeking blessings or experiencing the beauty of ancient architecture, visitors to this flourishing ancient temple can discover inner serenity amid the enduring glow of its incense offerings.