[2025 Miaoli Attraction] Travel Guide for Baishatun Gongtian Temple (Updated Jul)

In Tongxiao, Miaoli, the bustling Gongtian Temple, with its thriving incense offerings, draws countless devotees to pay homage. This grand and majestic Mazu sanctuary exudes an extraordinary aura. Yet, just beside the temple lies a modest and understated corner—a small seaside park that feels like a tranquil backyard under Mazu's protection. This park may be small, but it radiates a sense of natural serenity. Following the stone path forward, a vast stretch of beach quietly unfolds. Unlike the artificial coastlines often seen in urban areas, this place retains its most primitive landscapes and breath. The soft sand underfoot feels like stepping into a silent prayer. Beyond the beach lies the sea—free from the throngs of tourists, with only the gentle sea breeze and poetic sound of waves. Standing at the shore, gazing at the endless horizon, the wind brushes past your ears, carrying away your worries. Occasionally, a few seabirds circle above, and one or two anglers sit quietly by the coast, making the vastness of the world even more palpable. This place feels like a transitional space: on one side, the temple of human faith; on the other, the embrace of nature's vastness. Under Mazu's watchful gaze, this coastal area is not just a scenic retreat but also a spiritual balance. Visitors come here not only to admire the sea but also to find inner peace.

The "Five Treasures of the Coastal Line" in Miaoli refer to three Japanese-style wooden stations located in Miaoli County, along with two in Taichung City. These stations are Tanwen, Dashan, Xinpu, Rinan, and Zhuifen. All of them were built during the Japanese colonial period and share the same architectural style, earning them the nickname "Five Treasures of the Coastal Line" or "Five Brothers of the Coastal Line" among railway enthusiasts. It was so hot and so much fun! Still missing three treasures—looking forward to the next visit!

I have been looking forward to experiencing the Mazu Procession for a long time. I just wanted to experience the grand occasion. I took my good friend and her disabled elders and rushed straight to Taichung from Taipei early in the morning. In Taichung, we decided where to go. Before leaving, I saw on the news that it was very likely to go to Nantou. After discussing, we decided to try to go to Nantou. I didn’t expect to see Mazu’s sedan chair stop! As my experienced friends said, "Every time I feel different."

Baishatun Gongtian Temple is located in Tongxiao Township, Miaoli County. Built in 1863 during the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, it serves as the main religious center for local residents, primarily worshiping Mazu. The temple is renowned for its unique soft-bodied deity statue. Its pilgrimage to Beigang is listed as an intangible cultural heritage of folk customs in the Republic of China, attracting a large number of followers each year. The pilgrimage has no fixed route or date. Address: No. 8, 2nd Neighborhood, Baidong Village, Tongxiao Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan