Fujian has a "Mini Forbidden City" hiding 1,700 years of secrets.

If you come to Fujian, don't miss the Fujian Chenghuang Temple hidden in the alleys of Guping Road, Fuzhou. It holds thousands of years of history and stories, a treasure favored by time. First built in the third year of the Taikang era of the Western Jin Dynasty, the Chenghuang Temple is over 1,700 years old. It is the oldest Chenghuang Temple in Fujian and the second oldest in China. Though its facade is modest today, in its heyday, it covered over 100 acres, with grand buildings, staggered halls, and flourishing incense. Stepping into the temple, the front hall enshrines the City God Chenghuang and his wife, along with other deities, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere. The rear hall houses Taoist deities such as the Three Pure Ones, Wenchang Dijun, and Linshui Furen, where the lingering incense evokes awe. The main deity worshipped here is Zhou Ke, a loyal official of the Han Dynasty, who upheld his integrity and refused to surrender, ultimately being boiled to death by Xiang Yu. His story is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian" and he is revered by the people as the City God, worshipped for generations. Moreover, the temple also enshrines many virtuous officials from past dynasties, such as Cai Xiang and Tang He, who together guard the historical memory of Fuzhou. The Fujian Chenghuang Temple has another unique feature: it governs "twelve prefectures," including all of Taiwan. On the walls on both sides of the main hall, among the murals of the "Twelve Prefectures' City Gods of Fujian," the City God of Taiwan Prefecture is prominently displayed, confirming the shared heritage of City God beliefs across the Strait and bearing witness to Taiwan's historical subordination to Fujian. Today, it serves as the origin of City God beliefs in Fujian and Taiwan, a spiritual link connecting people across the Strait, with numerous Taiwanese believers visiting annually to trace their roots and pay homage to their ancestors. Having weathered the passage of time, the Fujian Chenghuang Temple continues to thrive with burning incense. As you wander through the ancient buildings, tracing the marks of time, you can almost hear the echoes of history and feel the power of faith that spans millennia. Come here to explore history, experience faith, and encounter a unique cultural journey.