2025 Year of Yi-Si Linyuan Fengyun Temple Matsu Maritime Pilgrimage
The Linyuan Fengyun Temple prepares for a significant cultural and religious event: the quadrennial "Matsu Maritime Pilgrimage," scheduled for the 2025 Year of Yi-Si (often referred to as the Year of the Wood Snake in the Chinese zodiac). Commencing on April 9th, this unique five-day event involves both a sea voyage and land-based processionals dedicated to Matsu, the revered maritime goddess. Participants and observers will have the opportunity to witness the deity’s procession navigate the coastal waters, a powerful symbol of Matsu braving the wind and waves to protect seafarers. This maritime aspect distinguishes the event, offering a different perspective compared to land-only pilgrimages. Prepare to welcome Matsu during this remarkable journey!
2025 Year of Yi-Si Linyuan Fengyun Temple Matsu Maritime Pilgrimage Schedule:
The pilgrimage unfolds over five days with the following itinerary:
- April 9th (Wednesday): Guan Shui Xian Zun Wang (Activities centered around Honoring the Water Immortal Deity).
- April 10th (Thursday): Departure from Zhongyun Port, followed by the Maritime Pilgrimage across the water, concluding with a Temporary Residence established at Anping Port.
- April 11th (Friday): Departure from Anping Port. Later, a Grand Prayer Ceremony will be held at 18:00, accompanied by Troupe and Opera Performances to Thank the Gods. A highlight includes the distribution of Limited Edition Sedan Chair Gold. The day concludes with a Temporary Residence at Kaohsiung Port.
- April 12th (Saturday): The Gushan Yancheng Port Purification Pilgrimage takes place, followed by the departure from Kaohsiung Port for the return journey to Zhongyun Port.
- April 13th (Sunday): The event culminates with the Zhongyun Fengyun Peace Pilgrimage through the local area.
A notable feature of the 2025 pilgrimage involves the collaboration with the Kaohsiung City Government. On April 11th, the Linyuan Fengyun Temple Matsu Maritime Pilgrimage has been specially invited to establish its temporary residence at Kaohsiung Port. This provides a unique opportunity for Matsu believers and interested individuals from across Taiwan to gather at the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center. From this modern vantage point, attendees can witness the impressive spectacle of the "Maritime Pilgrimage Matsu" fleet arriving and participating in evening ceremonies.
April 11th (Friday) Temporary Residence Activities at Kaohsiung Port:
The schedule for the evening at the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center is as follows:
- 18:00 – 18:30: Matsu Birthday Celebration and Grand Prayer Ceremony – a solemn occasion for prayer and reverence.
- 18:30 – 19:30: Civil and Military Troupe Performances – showcasing traditional performance arts associated with temple festivities.
- 19:30 – 21:00: Opera Performance to Thank the Gods – featuring the acclaimed Chun-Mei Opera Troupe presenting "The Legend of Matsu," offering cultural enrichment alongside the religious observance.
Limited Edition Sedan Chair Gold Collection Information:
For those interested in obtaining a commemorative item, details for the Limited Edition Sedan Chair Gold are provided below:
- Distribution Date: April 11th
- Distribution Location: Kaohsiung Pop Music Center Sea Breeze Plaza
- Queuing Time: Begins at 17:00
- Distribution Time: Starts at 18:30 and continues until supplies last – distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is Matsu and why is she significant in maritime pilgrimages?
Matsu, also known as Mazu, is a sea goddess venerated in Chinese culture, especially among coastal communities in Taiwan, China, and Southeast Asia. She is regarded as the protector of fishermen and sailors, providing safety and guidance on the sea. The legend of Matsu originates from Lin Mo, a young woman from the Song Dynasty, known for her piety and compassion. She is said to have saved her family from shipwrecks and helped those in danger at sea.
Matsu’s importance in maritime pilgrimages is linked to her role as a symbol of safety for those who rely on the sea. Pilgrimages to her temples, such as the Linyuan Fengyun Temple, are expressions of devotion and gratitude, where worshippers seek her blessings for safe journeys and successful fishing. These pilgrimages include rituals like processions, offerings, and traditional performances, highlighting the cultural and spiritual ties between the communities and the sea. The 2025 Linyuan Fengyun Temple Matsu Maritime Pilgrimage continues this tradition, attracting participants to honor the goddess and celebrate her legacy.
