As the Mazu pilgrimage finished on Sunday, with the goddess returning to her seat in Gongtian Temple, she was welcomed by overflowing crowds, including a growing number of younger devotees.
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The Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage ended on Sunday, with the sea goddess returning to her seat at Gongtian Temple among enormous crowds. Close to 330,000 people joined the 10-day, 9-night pilgrimage journey, almost double last year's number.
The pilgrimage is known for its spontaneity as it doesn’t follow a fixed route. This year, GPS tracking showed a heart-shaped path, which many interpreted as Mazu’s silent blessing to Taiwan. And along the way, participants offer fellow pilgrims water, snacks, and handmade charms.
Once a niche event, the pilgrimage has grown into a major religious event, and there has recently been a surge in younger participants. Social media has played a role, with young Gen Z’ers spreading the message on platforms like Threads, which is popular among 16 to 24-year-olds in Taiwan.
National Chengchi University’s religious studies researcher Hung Ying-fa (洪瑩發) says that more and more young people are joining because they care about Taiwan’s culture and want to participate in it, and says that miracles attributed to Mazu also add to the appeal.
More than just a spiritual experience, the pilgrimage also challenges participants physically and emotionally, reinforcing ties to the land and to each other. In uncertain times, following Mazu has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and enduring faith.