The annual Dajia Matsu pilgrimage, one of the world's largest religious events, concluded early this morning in Taichung, as the goddess' palanquin was returned to Dajia Jenn Lann Temple (大甲鎮瀾宮) more than two hours behind schedule due to massive crowds.
The palanquin was scheduled to arrive at the temple in the city's Dajia District (大甲) at about 11pm last night, but did not get there until 1:21am, as thousands of worshipers lined up to pass under it — a ritual believed to bring blessings and protection.
Photo: Ou Su-mei, Taipei Times
On arrival at Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, the three Matsu statues on the palanquin were carried into the main hall and formally enshrined, marking the end of the nine-day pilgrimage more than 340km through four administrative regions in central Taiwan.
Yesterday, the procession entered Dajia's urban area at about 5pm, after crossing Shuiwei Bridge and going through four traditional city gates, before heading towards the temple.
By nightfall, the temple plaza and surrounding streets were packed with devotees, religious troupes and pilgrims, with firecrackers and fireworks adding to the festive atmosphere.
Temple officials estimated that about 800,000 people flooded Dajia on the final leg of the procession, turning the area into a "sleepless city."
Thousands of worshipers were waiting to perform the ritual of "crawling under the palanquin," while numerous roadside food stations set up by residents to support the pilgrims also slowed the procession, officials said.
When the palanquin finally arrived at the temple, chanting filled the air as worshipers reached out to touch the statues being carried inside, in the hope of receiving blessings.
Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin (鄭照新) joined temple chairman Yen Ching-piao (顏清標) and other dignitaries at the final enshrinement ceremony.
Asked about the delay, Yen said it was inevitable, given the enthusiasm of the crowd.
This year's pilgrimage began on April 17, traveling through Taichung, as well as Changhua, Yunlin and Chiayi counties before returning to Dajia.
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