In Taiwan, the phoenix is a common cultural image that is seen soaring across temple rooftops. Described as a composite of many animals, including a pheasant and a peacock, the graceful figure of a phoenix generally has brilliantly colored plumage, a luxuriously flowing tail, an impressive beak, and an elegantly curved body with two wings extending outward.
Traditionally considered the king of birds, it is listed as one of four sacred animals in ancient Chinese texts – the others being the dragon, the tortoise, and the qilin, or unicorn. Deemed as outstanding creatures, these numinous animals symbolized wisdom, virtue, nobility, longevity, harmony, and other normative values characteristic of traditional Confucian society.
Besides these social ideals, the phoenix was also associated with the forces of the sun, fire, south, and summer.
Over time, belief systems and worldviews have fundamentally transformed in Taiwan. Although the phoenix is still valued as a symbol of peace and tranquility, contemporary society also embodies its own distinctive culture, identity, and ways of life that differ significantly from the past.