Luodong Confucius Temple

The Luodong Confucius Temple, located in Luodong Township, Yilan County, is a Confucian ritual structure rich in cultural and historical significance. It was originally built in 1892 through a grassroots initiative funded by the local community. The temple primarily enshrines Confucius and also honors other Confucian sages such as Cang Jie, Zhou Tongxi, Zhang Hengqu, Cheng Mingdao, Cheng Yichuan, and Zhu Xi. It holds a unique place in history and culture as the only Confucius temple in Taiwan built by the people rather than the government.

The current structure of the temple was rebuilt after it was relocated to its present site in 1966, following World War II. The temple preserves the essence and layout of traditional Confucian temple architecture. Designed according to Confucian rituals, it features a solemn and symmetrical layout. At the center stands the "Lingxing Gate," which marks the starting point of the temple’s central axis and is one of the typical elements of Confucian temple design. The main gate is usually closed, and visitors typically enter through the adjacent "Li Gate," symbolizing entry through the path of propriety.

Deeper inside is the Dacheng Hall, the core of the Confucius temple and the primary venue for holding ceremonies honoring Confucius. Inside, the spirit tablet of Confucius is enshrined, flanked by the Four Sages (Mencius, Zengzi, Yanzi, and Zisi) and other notable Confucian figures. A spirit tablet of Cang Jie is also placed inside, showing reverence for the originator of writing.

The space between the Lingxing Gate and the Dacheng Hall is also filled with cultural ambiance. It features a statue of Confucius and a fish pond, with pavilions on both sides for visitors to rest. One of the temple’s unique attractions is the presence of live peacocks; if you’re lucky enough to see one display its feathers, it adds an extra touch of tranquility and elegance.