Miaoli county: The palanquin carrying two statues of the sea goddess Mazu from Baishatun Gongtian Temple in Miaoli County returned to their home base Monday, marking the end of an eight-day pilgrimage to Chiaotian Temple in Yunlin County. The event, steeped in tradition, saw tens of thousands of devotees escorting the statues into the main hall, where they were formally seated.

According to Focus Taiwan, the scene around Gongtian Temple was vibrant, with throngs of people filling the surrounding alleys. Devotees and households along the route celebrated Mazu's return by setting up incense tables. In a show of community spirit, volunteer groups and local businesses established refreshment stations to provide drinks and snacks for those who participated in the lengthy pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage commenced on April 13 from Tongxiao Township, with the palanquin carrying three Mazu statues, including one from the nearby Shanbian Mazu Temple. This year, the procession attracted a record turnout, with over 460,000 devotees participating. On April 16, the procession reached Chaotian Temple, where the palanquin performed a "fire-gathering" ritual before beginning its return journey early Friday.

Known for its unique feature of having no fixed route, the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage is regarded as one of Taiwan's most significant religious events. The path is believed to be determined by the deity's will, reflected in the movements of the palanquin, adding a layer of spiritual significance to this annual tradition.