Thousands of devotees gathered in central Taiwan on April 25, 2026, to welcome the Mazu pilgrimage procession from Dajia Temple as it made its northbound return journey through Taichung, despite heavy rain.
According to reports, the procession arrived in Taichung one hour earlier than scheduled, prompting an early turnout of faithful followers who braved the downpour to line the streets and offer prayers.
Police presence was significantly increased along the route, with over 400 officers deployed to maintain order and ensure the safety of participants during the chaotic scenes that unfolded near Changhua’s Tianhou Temple, where the procession began its return leg.
Witnesses described intense crowd surges and pushing incidents as devotees attempted to gain close to the palanquin carrying the sacred statue of Mazu, the sea goddess revered across Taiwan and Southeast Asian communities.
In one incident near Yongle Street in Changhua City, a female participant was reportedly subdued by police after becoming involved in a physical altercation during the pushing and shoving, leading to allegations of obstructing official duties, which authorities said are under investigation.
Despite the tensions, law enforcement maintained a close protective formation around the palanquin throughout the procession, using tactical positioning to prevent further escalation while allowing the religious ceremony to continue.
The Dajia Mazu pilgrimage is one of the largest religious events in Taiwan, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants annually over its nine-day route, which spans approximately 340 kilometers from Dajia in Taichung to Xingang in Chiayi and back.
Real-time tracking of the procession’s location and route was made available to the public through live broadcasts and digital maps, allowing followers unable to attend in person to monitor its progress.
The event holds deep cultural significance, blending folk religion, community solidarity, and centuries-old tradition, with many viewing the pilgrimage as a spiritual journey and an expression of gratitude for divine protection.
