Taiwan's Spectacular Annual Mazu Pilgrimage: A Spiritual Journey Unfolds

Hundreds of Thousands Gather as the Sea Goddess Embarks on a Nation-Spanning Procession.

Taichung, Taiwan – The vibrant heart of Taiwan’s religious calendar beats anew as the annual Dajia Mazu pilgrimage commenced on Friday night from the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung. This spectacular event, a highly anticipated religious highlight in Taiwan, marks the beginning of a profound spiritual journey for countless devotees.

The nine-day procession sees the sea goddess, Mazu, embark on a 340-kilometer odyssey through the heart of Taiwan, passing through the cities of Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi before returning to its origin. The palanquin carrying the effigy of Mazu set off from the temple at precisely 10:45 p.m.

The day leading up to the departure was filled with anticipation, including prayer activities at the Jenn Lann Temple, attracting a significant presence of political figures. Among the attendees were the Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu (朱立倫), Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), and Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣).

During the evening’s departure ceremony, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) and several KMT lawmakers were also present to offer their blessings and pay respect to Mazu.

The Dajia Jenn Lann Temple estimated an impressive 600,000 participants engaging in the day's activities, highlighting the pilgrimage's significant impact.

Year after year, throngs of Mazu devotees line the pilgrimage route, eager to receive blessings. Some even participate in a unique ritual, laying on the ground to have the palanquin pass over them, a gesture believed to offer direct contact with Mazu's divine grace.

The Mazu statue is anticipated to return to its altar on April 13.

Mazu, also known as Tian Hou (Queen of Heaven), holds a revered place in Taiwanese religious tradition, worshipped since at least the 12th century. Originating from Fujian province in southeastern China, Mazu was a shamaness credited with safeguarding fishermen and seafarers. Her cult grew and spread throughout coastal China and overseas Chinese communities in Southeast Asia. The belief in Mazu was then brought by early Chinese settlers to Taiwan, becoming an integral part of the local culture.

Over the years, Mazu's role expanded to embrace protection for all, solidifying her position as a benevolent protector within Taiwanese society.