CHICHENG TEMPLE IN SHILIN, TAIPEI IS DEDICATED TO MATSU, THE GODDESS OF THE SOUTHERN SEAS. IF YOU ARE IN TAIPEI AND SHOPPING AT SHILIN NIGHT BAZAAR, YOU MUST VISIT THIS FASCINATING TEMPLE! YOU CANNOT MISS IT AS IT IS LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PEDESTRIAN STREET

KEE@FSWMAG.COM
I was walking and exploring and shopping in Shilin Night Market when I saw this ornate, elaborate and lovely temple dedicated to Matsu or Mazu or Matzu, Goddess of the Southern Sea. Matzu is not to be confused with Xi Wangmu, Goddess of the Western Heavens who some say is the wife of the Jade Emperor. Xi Wangmu tends to the Peaches of Longevity trees which fruit once every 3,000 years during which time Xi Wangmu invites the gods, goddesses and deities to a lavish banquet where these peaches are served.

Matzu controls the waves, weather and wealth and is particularly beloved by the Hokkiens in Nanyang, the southern quadrant or SE Asia! In Kuala Lumpur, the world famous Thien Hou temple off Federal Highway is dedicated to Matzu as Thien How is another of her names.