This is Taiwans most famous Matsu temple. The Matsu statue from Meizhous Heavenly Empress Temple was brought to Taiwan in 1694. At the time, Beigang was a major transport hub and it was where the statue was unloaded. Local residents asked to have the statue remain permanently and a small shrine was constructed to house it. Even after floods, earthquakes and wars, the temple still stands today. It has grown to its present state thanks to renovations made by devout followers.