Exploring the Influence of Local Folk Beliefs in Taiwan on Urban and Rural Sustainability

Chen, Li Yueh

Exploring the Influence of Local Folk Beliefs in Taiwan on Urban and Rural Sustainability

James Alexander Gordon on 30th October 2025

Author Information

Li Yueh Chen, Weixin Shengjiao College, Taiwan

Abstract

Taiwan is a migrant settlement society. Since the Ming and Qing periods, early settlers continuously crossed the sea from mainland China to Taiwan, gradually forming settlements through clustering effects and developing locally distinctive socio-economic structures and diverse cultural landscapes. These settlers also brought deities from their places of origin to Taiwan and built temples within their settlements for worship. Over time, these temples became important sites in local life, carrying religious, social, and economic significance. In recent years, sustainable urban and rural development has attracted increasing attention, particularly in rural and peripheral areas. This study takes Shuntian Temple, located in Tuku Township, Yunlin County, as its research case. Founded during the Jiawu year of the Daoguang reign in the Qing dynasty, Shuntian Temple is dedicated primarily to Mazu and serves as both a county designated historic site and a local religious center. This study integrates narrative inquiry and fieldwork methods. Through local historical narratives, in-depth interviews, and observation, it outlines the social, economic, and cultural influence of Tuku Shuntian Temple. Taking the temple as the core, this study further connects the Tuku township office, businesses along Tuku old street, and regional revitalization enterprises to construct sustainable urban and rural development strategies centered on local folk beliefs, thereby creating a sustainable ecosystem that brings renewed vitality to Tuku Township. The findings are expected to provide a different perspective for those concerned with sustainable urban and rural development.