In my youth, my father would often take me to Bishan Yan Shrine, a site nestled in the hills of Neihu District, Taipei, renowned for its venerable history and spiritual significance. Established during the Qing Dynasty and later renovated under Japanese rule, the shrine has long stood as a place of reverence, dedicated to Kaizhang Shengwang, the revered pioneer deity of Zhangzhou.
It was before the consecration space of this hallowed site that my father, a man of great hospitality and energy, would lead his kitchen crew in preparing humble yet heartfelt feasts. I recall vividly the times he boiled instant noodles in a great cauldron, serving more than thirty people amidst the wooded serenity of the temple grounds.
Though the atmosphere was lively and filled with laughter, our merriment once drew the ire of the shrine keeper, who, in his duty to uphold the sanctity of the place, admonished my father with sternness. Even so, out of respect and resolve not to waste food, we remained until every last portion had been consumed, after which we departed quietly, leaving behind only the traces of memory and incense in the mountain air.
Sony A7RV
FE 20-70mm f4 G
This is linking Treasure Tuesday
