The temple of the dog

One grave dates from 1786-88, the other from a different rebellion in 1862. This one started in Changhua, and was led by Dai Chao-chun (戴潮春). Dai moved south but failed to capture Beigang’s port. Thirty-six local militiamen were killed in the battle. Each year, on the thirtieth day of the fifth lunar month, rites are held to honor these martyrs.

The temple’s address is 20 Jingyi Street (旌義街20號). However, the easiest way to find it is to locate Minjhu Road (民主路), and then walk down Minrong Street (民榮街). Minrong Street is barely one-car wide and there is very little parking right near the temple.

While you’re in Beigang, do spend some time in the commercial district in front of Chaotian Temple (朝天宮), the Mazu shrine that is the town’s main attraction.

The neighborhood is chockfull of traditional stores. Some of these places have been in business for half a century; a few claim 100 years of history.

Among the items sold here are Beigang Cakes, which locals purchase when they want to celebrate a wedding or a relative passing a major exam. These pastries are somewhat like jumbo moon cakes. Some weigh almost two kilograms and are filled with egg yolk, stewed meat, and red bean paste.

If these do not appeal, try some of Beigang’s other popular snacks, such as peanuts and deep-fried broad beans. The latter are best eaten cold.

How to get there:

Frequent buses link Beigang with Chiayi City (嘉義市). The bus station there is five minutes’ walk from the railway station: Head along Jhongshan Road (中山路) and you’ll find it on your right. There are also some direct buses from Kaohsiung (高雄) and Douliou (斗六). If you’re coming from Chiayi, get off as soon as the bus crosses the river that is the boundary between Chiayi County and Yunlin County. You’ll find yourself in Yimin Road (義民路). From there, small bilingual signs point the way to Chaotian Temple.

1|2

SharePrintEmail

Write a Comment

Enter your comments - 3000 characters max

Type in image code

Submit

 Receive China Post promos Respond to this email