Guan Sheng Di Jun (Lord Guan)

Guan Yu, styled Yunchang, was born in Jie County, Hedong Commandery (modern-day Yuncheng, Shanxi) in the late Eastern Han Dynasty. From a young age, he was known for extraordinary strength and a fierce sense of justice. After killing a local tyrant to protect others, he became a fugitive.

He later met Liu Bei and Zhang Fei in Zhuo Commandery. The three became sworn brothers in the legendary 'Oath of the Peach Garden,' vowing to live and die together.

Guan Yu's military exploits became the stuff of legend: slaying Hua Xiong while the wine was still warm, defeating Yan Liang and Wen Chou, crossing five passes and slaying six generals, and flooding the armies of the seventh army. Each tale showcases his unmatched martial prowess and unwavering loyalty.

The most touching story is his time under Cao Cao's patronage. Despite being offered wealth, the legendary Red Hare horse, and beautiful women, Guan Yu never forgot his brotherhood oath. Upon learning Liu Bei's whereabouts, he escorted Liu Bei's wives on a thousand-mile journey to reunite with his brother.

In 219 AD, Guan Yu was ambushed by Lu Meng of Eastern Wu at Jingzhou. After his death at Maicheng, temples were erected across the land. Through centuries of imperial honors, he was elevated from historical figure to divine being, becoming 'Guan Sheng Di Jun' — the supreme symbol of loyalty and righteousness.

Common offerings include the three sacrifices (whole chicken, pork, whole fish), longevity peaches, noodles, and three cups of tea. His birthday falls on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, when grand celebrations are held.

Note: Taipei's Xingtian Temple has banned incense and paper money burning for environmental protection — the first major temple in Taiwan to do so. Visitors simply pray with palms together.

The most important festival is Guan Sheng Di Jun's birthday on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. Major celebrations are held at temples across Taiwan, including Xingtian Temple and Tainan's Martial Temple.