Lugang coastline is located in central western Taiwan, Changhua County, the north-west end, the east river Yang Zi Cuo tributaries and drainage Anton II border Sioushuei Township, south Lukang Fusing Township across the river and the Taiwan Strait to the west, north to Fan Ya trench and Hsien Hsi, Hemei the two adjacent townships.
There are three statements about the original geographic name of Lugang or Luzaigang:
1. In Chinese, the meaning of “Lu” is a deer. In the past in the center of Taiwan, there were many deers would gather together at river mouth. Thus, Luzaigang afterward was called for short Lugang.
2. Takes for its deer-shaped landform, people were called Luzaigang.
3. In former times, this place was rough rice distribution center, because the square warehouse used for to store up the rough rice were also called “Lu”, for this reason, why Lukang get this name.
‧Tienhou Temple‧
Today’s temple is the result of a renovation in 1936. The host deity here is Matsu, Goddess of the Sea, who is said to have helped the Ching dynasty forces take Taiwan from holdout Ming loyalists in the 17th century. The Matsu image that the Ching officials brought with them was then left to be worshipped in Lukang, where her temple became extremely popular. The opulently beautiful temple as it appears today was built by masters who were all especially chosen for their skills. Its Taichung Hall, especially, is the masterpiece of famous masters, and the rear hall houses the admission-free Matsu Culture Museum.
‧Half-side Well‧
In olden times it was only the wealthy who could afford to dig a well. Out of concern for those less fortunate, the owner of this well kept only half of it offer his own use and offered the other half as a water supply for those who could not afford their own wells. The well is unused now, and all that is left is its mud-filled mouth Still, it is a poignant reminder of the magnanimous spirit of Lukang’s people.
‧Lungshan Temple‧
Originally established in the 17th century, moved to its present location in 1786, and rebuilt several times, Lungshan Temple is a large and imposing structure that is recognized as the best-preserved and most beautiful Ching dynasty building in Taiwan today. It is foremost of all temples in its excellence of construction and in its exquisiteness of carvings. Its beauties are readily apparent in its large main gate, the architecture of its structures, its classic paintings by Master Kuo Hsinlin, its uniquely ornate opera stage, its carved windows, its stone sculptures, and much more. Equally attractive is the expansive tranquility of its courtyards and halls, which provide an ideal spot for worship and for quiet contemplation. It is different from all other temples in Taiwan that are oriented primarily toward the needs of worshippers alone. For its history, its enchanting layout, and its architectural art alike, Lungshan Temple is worthy of careful study and enjoyment.
 Transportation
By Car
1) Freeway 1 → Exit at the Changhua Interchange → South on County Highway 142 → Jhanglu Road → Zhongshan Road → Lugang.
2) Freeway 1 → Exit at the Yuanlin Interchange → North on County Highway 148 → Xihu → County Highway 135 → Lugang.
By Bus
1) From Taipei, take a Kuo-Kuang or United Bus to Changhua, with departures every half hour; in Changhua, switch to a Changhua Bus to Lugang.
2) From Taichung or Changhua, take a Changhua Bus to Lugang.
3) At the Chaoma Station in Taichung, take a United minibus to Lugang.
4) Take train to Changhua Railway Station, then switch to a Changhua Bus to Lugang.
(Photos excerpted from pic1, pic2 , pic3) |
