Overlapping Mazu Pilgrimages Could Cross Paths in Taichung
The Dajia Mazu pilgrimage officially kicked off in Taichung on Friday night, with tens of thousands of worshippers setting out on a nine-day, 340-kilometer journey. With the overlapping Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage already underway, organizers anticipate record crowds exceeding one million participants across both events. This year offers a rare possibility: the two sea goddess processions may cross paths in Taichung on Saturday.
Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage Begins
REPORTER:
At exactly 10:05 PM Friday night, thousands of worshippers set off alongside the palanquin of the Taoist sea goddess Mazu on a nine-day, eight-night journey. The pilgrimage started off with a bang, including drums, gongs and fireworks. Organizers say this year may be one of the biggest crowds yet.
Cheng Ming-kun (VICE CHAIR, JENN LANN TEMPLE):
The snack stations have already gone through over 1.5 million bowls. We estimate there might be around 600,000 people here tonight.
REPORTER:
The procession follows a fixed route, traveling from the Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung down to Chiayi and back again, around 340 kilometers in all. Thousands will accompany Mazu on foot, with organizers reminding participants to go at their own pace.
Yen Ching-piao (CHAIR, JENN LANN TEMPLE):
If you walk too fast, it’s easy to get blisters. Take your time, Mazu will wait for us. The more you walk, the better it is for your health. Rest if you get tired. Mazu will definitely wait for you.
REPORTER:
Several top members of the main opposition Kuomintang were there on Friday night to see Mazu off. They included party leader Cheng Li-wun, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen and caucus whip Fu Kun-chi.
REPORTER:
As the Dajia Mazu pilgrimage begins, another Mazu procession, starting out from Baishatun farther to the north, is already underway. Unlike Dajia, the Baishatun pilgrimage does not have a fixed route or set time for completion. This year, for the first time since 2007, there’s a chance that the two traveling Mazu statues could meet on the road in Taichung on Saturday.
This is my first time following the route. I came down from Taipei. If the two Mazus were to meet and I could see them both at once that would be very special. I’d be very happy.
REPORTER:
The two pilgrimages are the highlights of Taiwan’s religious calendar, bringing in devotees from all over the country and from overseas. If early indications are correct, it seems likely that over a million people may be taking part in one or other pilgrimage this year in some form, testament to Mazu’s enduring and increasing appeal in recent years.
