Legend & Origin
Legend says Di Ji Zhu is the spirit of the original inhabitant of the land (possibly a Pingpu indigenous ancestor or early Han settler), who became the guardian spirit of the dwelling.
Household protection, family safety
Di Ji Zhu (Foundation Lord)
Foundation Spirit | House Guardian
Introduction
Di Ji Zhu is the guardian spirit of a household in Taiwanese folk belief. Though of humble rank (akin to a household Earth God), this spirit is closely tied to daily life. Families worship Di Ji Zhu during moving, settling deities, and major festivals (Lunar New Year's Eve, Qingming, Dragon Boat, Ghost Month, Double Ninth, Winter Solstice). Offerings are typically set up in the kitchen or by the back door, facing inward, with simple dishes — a chicken leg is essential.
Worship Guide
Di Ji Zhu worship takes place at home rather than in temples. The altar is set up in the kitchen or by the back door, at ground level, facing inward (toward the house). Essential offerings include a chicken leg (ji tui), rice, soup, chopsticks, and rice wine. Worship occurs on major festivals: Lunar New Year's Eve, Qingming (Tomb Sweeping), Dragon Boat Festival, Ghost Month (1st and 15th of the 7th month), Mid-Autumn Festival, Double Ninth, and Winter Solstice. When moving into a new house, a ceremony to "settle the Di Ji Zhu" must be performed to introduce the family to the guardian spirit.
Festivals
Di Ji Zhu does not have a specific birthday celebration. Instead, worship follows the rhythm of Taiwan's major traditional holidays. The most important worship occasions are Lunar New Year's Eve (when the whole family gathers) and the first and fifteenth of the Ghost Month (when spirits roam the earth). During these times, families set offerings at the ground-level altar and burn silver joss paper. The practice reflects the intimate, domestic nature of Di Ji Zhu faith — no grand temples or processions, just quiet gratitude for household protection.
Famous Temples
Di Ji Zhu (Foundation Lord)
Household protection, family safety