Yuanbao Tudi Gong Temple, also known as Yuanbao Earth God Temple (元寶土地公廟), is located on a hillside along Provincial Highway 147 in Guoxing Township, Nantou County, in central Taiwan. The hill in front of the temple resembles a traditional Chinese gold ingot, earning it the name “Yuanbao Mountain.” Surrounded by a tranquil natural environment and offering open views, the temple grounds are filled with natural stones shaped like gold ingots. Its unique style attracts many worshippers and tour groups, making it a popular and incense-filled destination.
Origins and legendary history of the temple
The establishment of Yuanbao Tudi Gong Temple originated from a remarkable series of events. In 2020, a man surnamed Hsiung purchased the land with the intention of farming. While leveling the ground, he unexpectedly discovered an over a century-old stone stele dedicated to Tudi Gong. Soon after, he dreamed that Tudi Gong appeared and asked him to restore the shrine and build a truly unique temple.
To properly enshrine the stone stele, a massive seven-ton Taishi stone chair was sourced. During the cutting process, natural patterns resembling “Twin Dragons Presenting Auspiciousness” emerged, which many regarded as a divine sign. This event further strengthened the resolve to build what has now become a highly recognizable religious landmark in Nantou.
Temple design and incense area
Unlike traditional enclosed temples, Yuanbao Tudi Gong Temple features an open-air design with no solid walls, relying solely on canopy structures for shade. The entire layout centers on a giant gold ingot, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and abundant blessings.
Rather than a carved statue, Tudi Gong is represented by a stone tablet engraved with the deity’s title. The most popular attraction is the nearly one-ton “Fortune-Turning Stone (Shi Lai Yun Zhuan),” which visitors can turn by hand to symbolize a change of luck around the incense area. Visitors will find gold ingot-shaped stones, easily rotated fortune stones, longevity turtle stones, a peach stone symbolizing longevity, and golden toad stones associated with attracting wealth.
Temple grounds and blessing pathways
The temple grounds include a Happiness Blessing Pathway, with steps lined by hanging wish cards that form a heartfelt “wish corridor.” The handrails are crafted from irregular natural stone, each embedded with a unique miniature gold ingot stone. Slopes and walls throughout the grounds are landscaped with stacked stones and accented by pine and cypress trees, blending spiritual symbolism with natural aesthetics.
Plaza area and conclusion
Across the road lies a spacious plaza that serves both as a parking area and an extension of the temple experience. Along the highway, a pair of giant offering towers made of artificial canned foods, each topped with a huge artificial gold ingot, mark the space, which features giant golden toad stones, a blessing tunnel, and various artistic installations, allowing visitors to begin their prayer journey the moment they arrive.
More than a place of worship, Yuanbao Tudi Gong Temple is a unique destination that combines religious faith, natural stone art, and photo-worthy scenery. Whether visiting to pray sincerely or exploring as part of a cultural journey, visitors are sure to feel surrounded by blessings, good fortune, and positive energy.
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