The Kaiji Tianhou Temple was built in the 17th year of the Yongli reign during the Ming Dynasty, commonly known as the "Small Matsu Temple." It is located in the North District of Tainan City, at the southern end of the flow from the northern exit of the Deqing Creek. The choice of this location for the Matsu Temple shows that the people at that time relied on the sea for their livelihood and wished to pray for safety. Although the Kaiji Tianhou Temple is smaller in scale and simple in its interior, it gives a warm feeling and has a unique charm. A couplet at the entrance of the temple reads: "The heavens first establish the great Matsu, while the small Matsu transcends the old Matsu, yet does not surpass the grandeur of the new Matsu," which illustrates the temple’s history as Taiwan's earliest community-built Matsu temple. Before Taiwan’s restoration, the Kaiji Tianhou Temple was severely damaged by Allied bombing during WWII, but it was later repaired with funds raised through donations, and it now shines with renewed glory. The Kaiji Tianhou Temple primarily worships Tianhou (also known as the Heavenly Empress or Matsu), who is the most common and devoutly worshiped deity in Taiwan's folk beliefs, especially in port cities. The temple houses several ancient plaques, such as "Lord of the Sea and Sky" from the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong period, "Compassionate Wisdom" from the Jiaqing period, and "Heavenly Blessing Star" from the Daoguang period, all of which are highly regarded. With a history of over 300 years, if you have the chance to visit Tainan, this is a place worth stopping by!

Attraction Information:

Phone: +886-6-2294911

Address: No. 12, Ziqiang Street, North District, Tainan City

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Transportation Information:

【Public Transportation】

TRA (Taiwan Railways): Alight at Tainan Train Station → Transfer to Bus No. 18 → Get off at Chenggong Elementary School Station → Walk to the destination.

【By Car】

National Highway No. 1 → Yongkang Interchange → Continue straight towards the city → Chenggong Road → Ziqiang Street → Arrive at the destination.