YUNLIN (TVBS News) — The “Beigang Pilgrimage," an important tradition maintained by the Beigang Chaotian Temple, has officially been declared Taiwan's 23rd Major Folk Custom by the Ministry of Culture last Saturday (Feb. 17).
In a consensus decision, members of the Ministry's Folk Custom Review Council convened and agreed to recognize the "Beigang Pilgrimage" as an integral part of the nation's historic customs. Minister of Culture Shih Che conveyed plans to work closely with the Cultural Heritage Preservation Bureau to help maintain and preserve the Beigang Chaotian Temple.
The Beigang Chaotian Temple uniquely continues two recognized Major Folk Customs in Taiwan, the "Beigang Pilgrimage" and the “Welcoming of Mazu." The pilgrimage reflects the significance of Taiwan's folk belief in Mazu and wields strong influence. It also serves as a collective recollection and identity amongst the local population.
Legacy processes are retained in their traditional forms at the Beigang Chaotian Temple, holding cultural and religious meanings and attracting believers from across the nation and various counties.
According to the temple's data, the number of pilgrimage groups visiting Beigang Chaotian Temple each year exceeds 3,000, attracting millions of devotees.