#China #Cultural Exchange #Fujian #Chen Jinggu #Gutian

Discovering the Heart of Chen Jinggu Culture in Gutian County

From June 10 to June 12, 2026, Gutian County in Fujian Province hosted the Chen Jinggu Cultural Activities Week, an integral part of the 18th Straits Forum. This event attracted a diverse crowd of locals and visitors who came to celebrate a culture that has deep historical roots and continues to foster connections between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

A Historical Overview

Gutian County is significant not just for its scenic beauty but also as the birthplace of Chen Jinggu culture, a belief system venerating a legendary figure from the Tang Dynasty, revered as the "goddess for women and children." Legend tells that Chen Jinggu dedicated her life to healing and caring for her community. Today, her teachings embody virtues such as compassion and righteousness, becoming a cultural bridge for approximately 120 million devotees worldwide.

The Significance of the Cultural Week

Xu Feng, the Party Chief of Gutian County, emphasized the importance of the Cultural Activities Week as a means to nurture common cultural roots, bringing together the heritage of people from both Taiwan and mainland China. This year's gathering included various thematic events designed to enrich interactions among youths, women, merchants, and the broader community. These initiatives aim to enhance mutual understanding, collaboration, and shared experiences, integral to promoting a harmonious cross-Strait environment.

Highlighted Events

During this year's celebrations, a notable event was the commemoration at Linshui Palace, the main ancestral temple of Chen Jinggu, where over 1,000 representatives from different regions and countries came together. Attendees traveled from places like Taiwan, Macau, Hong Kong, and even as far as the United States, Canada, Malaysia, and Singapore. This immense gathering not only revived connections but also marked the initiation of a pilot program dedicated to strengthening cross-Strait exchanges regarding Chen Jinggu's beliefs and customs.

A Cultural Bridge for Future Generations

The cultural week in Gutian is more than just an event; it is a strategic effort to foster closer industrial collaboration and entrepreneurship opportunities between the Taiwanese and local communities. Xu underscored that Gutian County aspires to be a welcoming environment for Taiwanese compatriots, encouraging them to reside and thrive in the region. By actively promoting cultural integration, Gutian aims to ensure the preservation and renewal of folk beliefs as a vital element of its cultural landscape.

Conclusion: Celebrating Unity Through Culture

The Chen Jinggu Cultural Activities Week reaffirms the significance of cultural heritage as a means to bridge divides and strengthen relationships across the Taiwan Strait. By celebrating their shared traditions and values, participants from various backgrounds foster a spirit of unity, cooperation, and friendship. Events like these not only honor historical ties but also pave the way toward a collaborative future, reminding us that culture can truly bring people together. As Gutian County continues its commitment to cultural exchange and integration, the essence of Chen Jinggu culture will undoubtedly persist, nurturing connections for generations to come.