Kaohsiung｜Chi Fa Mazu Temple—A serene journey combining red-tiled roofs, intricate art, lush landscapes, and urban vistas.

Nestled amidst the fields of Huwei, Chi Fa Mazu Temple offers a tranquil experience. Walking along the central pathway, you'll encounter red-tiled eaves, colorful ceramic art, and stone sculptures. Upon reaching the viewing platform, you'll be greeted by layers of greenery and the town's skyline. Here, religion and scenery blend harmoniously. Background and Development｜"Land Meizhou" in the Countryside Chi Fa Mazu Temple was established in the 1990s and later relocated to its current site, taking several years to complete. The temple primarily worships Meizhou's Heavenly Mother, accompanied by deities like Wenchang and Xuantian Shangdi. It has gradually developed into today's expansive complex. Notably, the temple advocates eco-friendly worship practices, refraining from burning joss paper, and offers services like spirit lamps and Wenchang lamps. Across from the temple lies the Stone Sculpture Mazu Park and Dressing Tower Park, which are typically open during festive periods such as the first to fourth days of the Lunar New Year. These limited openings often attract large crowds during the Spring Festival. ⸻ My On-Site Experience ① Entrance Gate—Front Courtyard: Upon entering, the red lanterns set the tone, and the incense smoke rises gently. This is the perfect spot to put away your phone and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. ② Painted Walls and Ceramic Art: The large story wall is captivating, with detailed expressions of characters and animals. The vibrant colors are striking yet not overwhelming, and up close, you can see the texture of ceramic and glass pieces. ③ Central Pathway: Ascend the steps along the central axis, accompanied by ceramic roof decorations and stone railings. The atmosphere is solemn yet welcoming. ④ Viewing Platform: Looking back, you'll see Huwei and the distant fields. On sunny days, the cityscape feels expansive, while cloudy days add a soft, quiet veil. ⑤ Stone Sculpture Park (if open): Statues of Mazu, General Guan, and other figures are arranged neatly. The clean lines make for great photo opportunities, especially when using people as scale references. ⸻ Reasons to Visit (Key Highlights) 1. Scenic Views × Religious Reverence: Red-tiled roofs, intricate ceramic details, and countryside vistas all in one frame. 2. Eco-Friendly Worship: Express your respect in a more sustainable way. 3. Clear Pathways: The central pathway is easy to navigate, making it suitable for elders to take breaks along the way. 4. Festive Surprises: Limited openings of the Stone Sculpture Park during Spring Festival are a rare treat. 5. Convenient Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with Huwei Old Street, Sugar Factory, and Puppet Theater Museum for a seamless day trip. 6. Photogenic Spots: From rooflines to ceramic art, stone sculptures, and tree shadows, every step offers a picture-perfect moment. ⸻ Half-Day Walking Itinerary (Ready to Copy) • Morning: 07:30 Arrival → Entrance Gate—Painted Walls—Viewing Platform → (if festive) Stone Sculpture Park tour. • Noon: Descend for local snacks → Visit Huwei Sugar Factory/Puppet Theater Museum or Old Street. • Evening: Enjoy Huwei snacks and buy souvenirs before heading home. ⸻ Food Recommendations (with addresses!)—Satisfy your stomach after worship • Wang's Angelica Duck Noodles Address: No. 37-8, Minsheng Road, Huwei Township, Yunlin County. What I had: Angelica duck noodles + duck oil rice. The broth is mild and aromatic, the duck tender and fresh, and the duck oil rice adds a delightful richness. Perfect after climbing the steps. Why recommend: Quick service, reasonable prices, close to the town center, and convenient for your itinerary. • Tiger Zhen Tang (Original Store) Address: No. 147, Ziqiang Street, Huwei Township, Yunlin County. What I had: Tiger Moon Cake + Sweet Potato Cheesecake. The soft outer layer and naturally sweet filling are delightful. Great as a takeaway souvenir, and perfect for snacking in the car. Why recommend: A visual and culinary representation of Huwei, ideal as a sweet ending to your trip. For traditional flavors, add Tangshan Meatball and Rice Cake｜No. 90, Fumin Road, Huwei Township, Yunlin County (Rice cake includes half an egg yolk and fragrant fried shallots). ⸻ Practical Tips (Avoid Pitfalls/Safety/Transportation) 💡 • Best Time: 8:00–10:00 AM or 3–5 PM for soft lighting and beautiful shadows. Avoid midday heat. • Attire: Wear non-slip shoes as there are many steps and slippery leaves. Summer breezes may lower the temperature by 2–3 degrees. • Etiquette: Keep your voice low in religious spaces; avoid crossing altars or damaging ceramic art. • Festive Openings: To visit the Stone Sculpture Park/Dressing Tower, check announcements for Lunar New Year openings. • Transportation: Self-driving or carpooling is recommended. Be courteous on narrow roads and avoid illegal parking. • Opening Hours: General worship 07:00–19:00 (open year-round; subject to on-site updates). ⸻ Photography Tips (Easy Shots with Your Phone) 📸 1. Painted Walls: Capture at a 45° angle with red lanterns and plaques; warm tones enhance the festive vibe. 2. Rooflines: Align rooflines and railings diagonally for sharp, clean lines. 3. Viewing Platform: Place the horizon at 1/3 of the frame, leaving 2/3 for sky and clouds for a clean distant view. 4. Stone Sculptures: Use people as scale references, activate portrait mode for a nicely blurred background. 5. Leaf Shadows: Frame with leaves using a telephoto lens for a layered, serene religious atmosphere. ⸻ Basic Information • Chi Fa Mazu Temple｜No. 46, Xiyuan, Dingxi Village, Huwei Township, Yunlin County｜07:00–19:00 • Features｜Eco-friendly worship, lamp services, festive Stone Sculpture Park openings. • Nearby Attractions｜Huwei Sugar Factory, Puppet Theater Museum, Huwei Old Street (great for extended walks). Chi Fa Mazu Temple｜Stone Sculpture Mazu Park｜Huwei Old Street｜Huwei Sugar Factory｜Wang's Angelica Duck Noodles｜Tiger Zhen Tang