When people think of Chiayi, many foreign tourists often picture the serene mountain trails of Alishan and the ancient aura surrounding the millennium-old sacred trees. For Taiwanese locals, this mental image also includes distinctive local delicacies like turkey rice. A legend by its introduction from the US military and subsequently integrated into the region’s culinary heritage. Additionally, the aromatic hot pot fish head is another tempting treat that fills its delightful aroma. Chiayi boasts two prominent centers of faith – the Cheng Huang Temple and the Fongtian Temple in Xingang. The Cheng Huang Temple, situated near the bustling Dong Market, exudes a timeless charm with its stalls that have been serving flavors cherished by Chiayi residents for over five to six decades. A feature of Chiayi’s cuisine, the slow-cooked hot pot dishes infuse the broth with the rich flavors of the ingredients, creating a tender and savory experience highly revered by connoisseurs.
Apart from its culinary culture, there is a local legend surrounding the haunted house in Minxiong, Chiayi. Upon visiting the site, one would discover that it actually belongs to the Liu family, a prominent local clan. During the Japanese colonial era, this family was wealthy and constructed this mansion, which features Baroque-style architecture. However, the area gradually declined, and the family members pursued their own paths, leaving the ancient mansion uninhabited. Over time, it acquired a mysterious aura and was associated with stories about the ghost. Today, in connection with local tourism, a restaurant was established at the site named the “Haunted House” in the region. Chiayi boasts another local cultural gem – Jiaozhi pottery. This type of pottery technique is frequently found in temple constructions, and several respected pottery masters hail from Chiayi. In recent years, the government has set up a Jiaozhi pottery museum, aiming to preserve this traditional craft and deepen our understanding of Chiayi’s distinctive local culture.
When it comes to temple culture, one cannot overlook the veneration of Mazu, the sea goddess. In the Chiayi area, the Mazu temple at Xingang is particularly renowned. In fact, in 2006, a new school was established there – Xingang Arts High School – and on its opening day, Mazu was invited to become the school’s honorary principal. This distinct local tradition clearly showcases the deep-rooted faith in Mazu within the community. My journey to Chiayi this time marks my first attempt to explore the region’s culture from a developmental perspective. Though my visit was brief, it serves as the initial step towards a deeper understanding of the Chiayi culture.