A centuries-old temple dedicated to sea goddess Mazu on the island of Taiwan has become the starting point for an unexpected cultural adventure. The Chaotian Temple in Beigang Town, a spiritual hub for Mazu worship, inspired local resident Tsai Fu-hsiung to trace the goddess’s origins – a quest that led him across the Taiwan Strait to Meizhou Island in Fujian Province.
🏯 Born near the temple, Tsai spent decades piecing together Mazu’s story, revealing how folklore and faith transcend geographical boundaries. His journey highlights shared cultural roots between coastal communities, with historical records showing Mazu devotion spread from Fujian to Taiwan as early as the Song Dynasty.
🌏 The upcoming CGTN documentary 'The Journey of the Goddess' (premiering Feb 3) promises to unpack this spiritual connection through stunning visuals and personal narratives. Key details to watch for:
Rituals preserved across both locations
17th-century migration patterns linking Fujian and Taiwan
Modern-day cultural exchanges during Mazu festivals
For travelers and culture buffs, this story offers a blueprint for exploring East Asia’s living traditions – no time machine required! 🗺️
