Longtian Temple

Legend has it that Lord Leifu (Thunder God) is a Heavenly God of the Nine Heavens' Thunder Department. During the Qianlong Emperor's reign in the Qing Dynasty, he was commanded to save the world. Later, in the 36th year of the Republic of China (1947), he again received an imperial decree from the Jade Emperor of the Nine Heavens to descend upon Dalin, Taiwan, to bring salvation and enlighten all beings. In the 71st year of the Republic of China (1982), Longtian Temple, having fallen into disrepair over the years and experiencing an increasing number of visitors, was earmarked for reconstruction by local residents. Ground was broken on November 10th of the same year, at the Mao hour (5-7 AM), and construction was completed after three years and two months. The renovated Longtian Temple is dazzlingly magnificent and splendidly ornate. The 'fire entry and deity seating' ceremony was held on the 3rd day of the 11th lunar month, at the Mao hour (5-7 AM), in the 75th year of the Republic of China (1986). Residents of Yihe Village in Dalin Township have long believed that Lord Leifu blesses villagers with good health and bountiful harvests. Every year, on the 14th day of the 8th lunar month, the birthday of Lord Leifu and the longevity celebration of the White Crane Immortal Boy, Longtian Temple holds a grand celebration. Villagers prepare offerings of livestock and wine, gathering at the temple to offer incense and worship. A temporary stage is also set up in front of the temple, with boisterous gongs and drums creating a lively and joyful atmosphere, a rare spectacle in the quiet countryside. In front of Longtian Temple, there is also a century-old well. Its water is crystal clear, has never run dry, and is incredibly sweet, serving as an important source of drinking water for local residents in the past. Every Dragon Boat Festival, villagers eagerly draw 'noon water' (Wu Shi Shui). Folklore holds that noon water can cure all ailments. It is said that noon water drawn from the ancient well in front of Longtian Temple can be stored for a long time without spoiling, and many people use it for brewing tea, treating illnesses, cleansing, purifying homes, drawing talismans, and more. When Longtian Temple was rebuilt, this ancient well served as its central point, topped with a dragon-shaped fountain sculpture, symbolizing the local 'dragon vein' (geomantic energy current). Visitors who come during the Dragon Boat Festival can witness villagers gathered around the dragon head sculpture, eagerly drawing noon water – a truly spectacular sight. (Source: Cultural Resources Geographic Information System)