Why Hundreds of Thousands Are Joining Taiwan’s Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage
Hundreds of thousands of people took part in Taiwan’s 2025 Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage. The religious procession honored the sea goddess Mazu and stretched over 300 kilometers across Taiwan’s rural western plains. Pilgrims said improved technology, viral attention and personal devotion fueled the surge in participation.
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Taiwan’s Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage Swells to Record Crowds
The Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage, which has been held annually since the 1860s, has grown significantly in recent years. Fifteen years ago, around 5,000 registered pilgrims took part. This year, over 700,000 people followed the procession.
“I’ve worked here since I was 29 and have seen more people join the procession every year,” said Mr. Hsu, a local resident. “Before, the procession passed in about 10 minutes. Now, it takes almost an hour.”
Mazu is a sea goddess important to coastal communities in Taiwan. She is believed to protect fishermen and sailors. The pilgrimage covers up to 400 kilometers around Miaoli County and lasts about a week.
The route is not fixed and is decided by divination during the procession. This unpredictability once discouraged participants, but modern technology like GPS and live streaming now helps people follow the event.
“With better information and GPS, people can join the pilgrimage at any point,” said Scott, a pilgrim from Beigang.
The pilgrimage is physically demanding. Pilgrims face rain, heat, and limited sleeping arrangements. Small villages on the route sometimes struggle to accommodate the large crowds. Volunteers and local truck drivers offer help, including rides for tired walkers.
Some pilgrims take part for personal reasons. One man shared that after his wife became ill and later passed away, he continues to walk with Mazu every year. He now gives dolls to children during the pilgrimage, which reminds him of his wife.
Others value the community aspect. “It’s about walking and living together with others,” said Mr. Lo, a follower. “There is mutual respect, acceptance and a sense of giving back to society.”
For many in Taiwan, the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage is a way to connect with tradition and with others while following an event that combines old customs and modern tools.
