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Longshan Temple - A Living Temple in the Heart of Old Taipei
Step off the MRT and into a swirl of incense, chanting, and camera shutters - welcome to Longshan Temple, Taiwan's oldest temple. Built in 1738 by Fujian settlers, this temple has survived earthquakes, fires, and even WWII bombings. Locals say it was protected by the gods themselves.
The temple honors Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, but also houses Taoist deities like Mazu (Sea Goddess) and Wenchang Dijun, the god of exams. Inside the temple, don't forget to look up. The carved beams, dragons, and roof tiles are a feast for the eyes.
The neighborhood surrounding the temple preserves Taipei's most authentic temple culture - a blend of faith, food, and a hint of underground history. It is the birthplace of Taipei's gang culture, attracting tourists chasing its secret vibe.
Experience it like a local:
- Watch how people toss moon blocks to get divine answers.
- Visit at night, when the lanterns glow and the temple feels both magical and peaceful.
How to Get There: Right next to Longshan Temple MRT Station (Blue Line)
Bonus Tip: Swing by Huaxi Street Night Market and Monga Night Market next to the temple, perfect for grabbing local snacks like herbal turtle jelly or rice cake rolls.
12 Best Taiwan Night Markets (+ 8 Must-try Night Markets Food)
Taipei Tianhou Temple - A Sea Goddess in the Middle of Ximending
When hanging out in Ximending, one of Taipei's most modern, youthful districts, don't miss Taipei Tianhou Temple. This quiet temple sits among neon signs, fashion boutiques, and bubble tea shops. It dedicated to Mazu, the revered sea goddess who protects sailors, travelers, and the faithful.
Built in 1746 and later rebuilt, this is one of the few historic landmarks that survived in the ever-changing Ximending area. As you step through the gate, the bustling city noise fades. - replaced by the soft glow of lanterns, the scent of incense, and murmured prayers.
The temple may be small, but it's richly detailed. Look up inside - the beam work, wood carvings, and roof dragons are just as exquisite as in larger temples. Locals drop by to pray for safety, success, and smooth travels, especially before important journeys.
Experience it like a local:
- Drop in between shopping sprees to light a stick of incense for good luck.
- If you're heading on a long trip soon, this is the perfect place to ask Mazu for a safe journey.
- Visit at dusk, the golden glow of lanterns against the Ximending lights is magical.
How to Get There: Ximen MRT Station (Blue/Green Lines) – 5-minute walk
How Many Days in Taipei: Itinerary for Taipei [1,2,3,4 & 5 Days]
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Dalongdong Baoan Temple - Taipei's Hidden Masterpiece of Temple Art
Bao'an Temple is considered Taipei's most beautifully preserved traditional temple. If you're a fan of architecture, craftsmanship, or peaceful spiritual spots, this is a must-visit.
Originally built in the early 19th century, Bao'an Temple is dedicated to Baosheng Dadi, the God of Medicine - worshipped for health, healing, and protection from illness.
What sets Bao'an apart is its extraordinary detail. Every inch is a canvas: painted beams, carved dragons, stone lions, woodwork, and colorful roof sculptures tell stories from Chinese legends and folklore.
Inside, don't forget to look up - the roof structure alone is a masterpiece of interlocking woodwork and color.
Experience it like a local:
- Visit during Baosheng Cultural Festival (April–May) for parades, opera, and traditional rituals.
How to Get There: Yuanshan MRT Station (Red Line) – 10-minute walk
Bonus Tip: Right next door is Confucius Temple, offering a perfect contrast between the spiritual (Bao'an) and the scholarly (Confucianism).
Xingtian Temple - Taipei's Busiest Temple Without the Smoke
Built in 1967, Xingtian Temple may not have centuries-old carvings or dragons on its rooftops, but this temple draws thousands of locals every day. Why? It is dedicated to Guangong (關公), the red-faced god of war, loyalty, and business prosperity, or just as the god of money!
Interestingly, you won't see incense or candles here. In 2014, the temple banned incense burning to promote eco-friendliness. Despite this, office workers, students, and entrepreneurs come to pray for wisdom, honesty, and success. The vibe is fast-paced but focused - people don't linger long, but they come often.
It's also one of the few temples in Taiwan where photography is politely discouraged, out of respect for worshippers. But that doesn't mean it isn't worth visiting - on the contrary, it's a fascinating contrast to older, more decorative temples.
Experience it like a local:
- Observe the rituals of bowing and silent prayer, often done efficiently but sincerely.
- Try the spiritual cleansing service (收驚) near the temple - believed to ward off bad luck or stress.
- If you're feeling lost or anxious, this is a place locals go for mental clarity and grounding.
How to Get There: Xingtian Temple MRT Station (Orange Line) – 2-minute walk
Songshan Ciyou Temple - A Riot of Color by Raohe Night Market
If you're heading to Raohe Night Market, pause for a moment at the majestic gate just before the entrance - that's Songshan Ciyou Temple, a local landmark that's just as eye-catching as the street food stalls beyond it.
Built in the mid-18th century, this temple is also dedicated to Mazu. Locals come to offer prayers for protection, especially before trips or during exams.
From the moment you look up at its six-tiered rooftop brimming with dragons, phoenixes, and swirling clouds, you'll understand why it's often called one of the most flamboyant temples in Taipei. Every surface is richly decorated - from the stone lions at the door to the bright, gold-leafed carvings inside.
Experience it like a local:
Light incense and pray to Mazu for safe travels - especially fitting if Taiwan is just one leg of your trip.
Look up! The intricate roof sculptures and central ceiling carvings are dazzling.
How to Get There: Songshan MRT Station (Green Line) – Exit 1, 3-minute walk
Bonus Tip: After visiting the temple, grab a pepper bun (胡椒餅) at the front of the night market - one of Raohe's most famous snacks.
12 Best Taiwan Night Markets (+ 8 Must-try Night Markets Food)
Dajia Jenn Lann Temple - The Starting Point of Taiwan's Grandest Pilgrimage
Leaving Taipei behind, we now turn our attention to Taichung. Every year in the third lunar month, the city becomes the stage for the spectacular Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage, and at the heart of it all is Dajia Jenn Lann Temple - one of the most revered Mazu temples in all of Taiwan.
The pilgrimage is a 9-day, 8-night journey covering more than 300 kilometers. Along the route, devotees light incense, kneel in worship, carry the deity's palanquin, and follow her procession throughout the night. During this time, the usually quiet town transforms into a sleepless city of lights, incense, and crowds.
Even when it's not pilgrimage season, Jenn Lann Temple is a treasure trove of traditional art. Guardian beasts stand at the gates, while the rooftop comes alive with intricate ceramic figures and colorful mosaics.
Experience it like a local:
- Look for the giant ceremonial sedan chair used to carry Mazu - it's proudly displayed when not in use.
- Light incense and feel the weight of centuries of belief inside the grand main hall.
How to Get There: From Taichung city, take a local train to Dajia Station, then walk 10 minutes
Top Things to Do in Taichung: Night Markets, Day Trips
Taichung Maps: Map of Taichung with Attractions, MRT, HSR Stations
Wenwu Temple - A Lakeside Shrine of Scholars and Warriors
Say goodbye to Dajia, head south toward one of Taiwan's most famous scenic spots - Sun Moon Lake. And perched quietly on its northern shore is a temple that commands both reverence and incredible views: Wenwu Temple.
This grand lakeside temple is dedicated to two powerful figures: Confucius, the patron of wisdom and learning, and Guandi, the god of war and loyalty. That's where the name “Wen” (literature) and “Wu” (martial) comes from, a place that balances brain and brawn.
Walk through its massive red gates and you'll find a multi-tiered complex with golden roofs, dragon pillars, and sweeping staircases - all backed by the glittering lake. It's the perfect spot for quiet reflection, photo ops, or writing a wish for good grades or career success (yes, there are special rituals just for that).
Experience it like a local:
- Climb the 366 Steps of Life behind the temple, with one step for every day of the year - a symbolic journey up the mountain.
- Stop by the wish bell and write a wooden plaque asking for blessings in study, love, or life.
- Don't miss the rooftop view platforms - the lake, mountains, and temple in one frame make it postcard-worthy.
How to Get There: By bus or taxi from Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center or Shuishe Pier
Bonus Tip: Combine with a cable car ride or boat tour around the lake - it's one of the best day trips from Taichung
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Shouzhen Temple - The Sacred Heart of the Alishan Mountains
As you ascend into the misty forests of Alishan, past towering cypress trees and wooden railway tracks, you'll stumble upon something surprising: a grand temple perched in the clouds. Welcome to Shouzhen Temple - the highest temple in Taiwan, sitting at around 2,400 meters.
Originally built in the Qing Dynasty and rebuilt several times since, Shouzhen Temple is dedicated to the Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven (Xuantian Shangdi) - a Taoist deity known for driving away evil and bringing protection. It is a popular stop for both locals and pilgrims who brave the winding mountain roads.
While the temple isn't as flashy as some in the cities, what makes it magical is its atmosphere. Surrounded by pine trees and often wrapped in fog, it has a quiet, mystical energy that fits perfectly with the Alishan landscape.
Experience it like a local:
- Visit in the early morning when the temple is shrouded in mist - it feels like a scene from a Chinese painting.
- Explore the nearby Alishan trails, and make the temple a spiritual stop on your forest walk.
How to Get There: Take a bus or drive to Alishan from Chiayi; Shouzhen Temple is near Alishan Railway Station, walking distance from main scenic areas
10 Sun Moon Lake Things to Do (in 1 Day): Well-planned!
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Tainan Confucius Temple – The Beginning of Taiwan's Education
Continue south to Tainan, you'll meet Confucius Temple here. Built in 1665, it's the very first Confucian temple in Taiwan, and for generations, it served as a center of learning.
Dedicated to Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher and educator, the temple embodies values like respect, knowledge, order, and harmony. Its simple red walls, elegant courtyards, and ancient banyan trees create a peaceful setting that feels more like a classical garden than a place of worship.
In its prime, it was a school, where Taiwan's scholars trained for imperial exams. Even today, students come to pray for success in school, especially before big tests.
Experience it like a local:
- Visit the Dacheng Hall, where Confucius and his disciples are honored with tablets, not statues.
- If you're lucky, you might catch the Confucius Memorial Ceremony on September 28th - a traditional ritual with music, dance, and full ceremonial robes.
How to Get There: From Tainan Station, 15 minutes by taxi or 25 minutes on foot
Bonus Tip: Right across the street is Fuzhong Street, a charming old alley full of traditional snacks, teahouses, and crafts - perfect for a post-temple stroll.
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Fo Guang Shan Temple - Monumental Vision of Modern Buddhism
To end our temple journey through Taiwan, we head south to Kaohsiung, where faith takes on a truly monumental form. Welcome to Fo Guang Shan - the largest Buddhist monastery complex in Taiwan, founded in 1967 by Master Hsing Yun. It’s also home to the stunning Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum.
The first thing you'll notice? The sheer scale. Standing at the end of a long central avenue is a 108-meter-tall bronze seated Buddha, flanked by eight majestic pagodas and calm reflecting pools. At the far end, beneath the giant Buddha, is the Main Hall - a spacious, golden sanctuary where the relic is enshrined.
Inside the museum, you'll find interactive exhibits on Buddhist philosophy, art galleries, and even kid-friendly areas that explain the life of the Buddha in fun, visual ways. Whether you're a practicing Buddhist or just curious, it's an eye-opening and inspiring stop.
Experience it like a local:
- Step into the Great Buddha Hall to see the golden statue and relic, then join a short Dharma talk or guided meditation.
- Have a peaceful vegetarian lunch at the on-site restaurant - it's beloved for both its flavor and philosophy.
How to Get There: From Zuoying HSR Station, take the E01 Fo Guang Shan Express Bus (about 45–60 minutes)
Bonus Tip: Fo Guang Shan also offers free overnight stays for foreign travelers through its monastery experience program - an unforgettable way to immerse in Buddhist culture.
Kaohsiung Maps: Mrt, Attractions & Train Stations
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How to Plan a Taiwan Temple Tour?
You don’t need to go out of your way to visit these temples, as you travel along Taiwan’s western coastline, they’ll naturally appear on your itinerary. Taipei has a higher concentration of older temples, so it’s worth planning more time there.
For a balanced route that includes temples, mountains, lakes, culture, and food, follow this classic path:
Taipei → Taichung → Sun Moon Lake → Alishan → Tainan → Kaohsiung
This route will take you 8-10 days in total, with 5 days in Taipei to temples and surrounding popular spots like Yehliu Geopark, Yangmingshan National Park, Jiufen Old Street and Shifen. Then drive along Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan to Kaohsiung, the southern part of the island.
For shorter itinerary, skip Taichung and Tainan for a more compact but equally stunning experience:.
Taipei → Sun Moon Lake → Alishan → Kaohsiung
This route will take you 6-8 days, with 3-4 days in Taipei to visit temples in Taipei, enjoy street food, and explore nearby favorites. Then head south through Taiwan’s most beautiful lake and mountain scenery, ending your journey in the cultural heart of the south.
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Trace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel
Ready to see the best of Taiwan, from north to south? Asia Odyssey Travel is here to guide your journey around the island. With expert local partners and well-planned routes, we make your Taiwan trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.
We offer carefully designed tour packages and in-depth travel guides, including:
✔ Popular Tour Packages: Taiwan Group Tours, Taiwan Tours, Taiwan Family Tours, Taiwan Food Tours
✔ Useful Travel Guide: Taiwan Night Markets, Taiwan Temples, Taiwan Beaches, Taiwan Mountain, Taiwan Food, Taiwan Transportation
✔ Various Destinations: Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kaohsiung
✔ Classic Itineraries: Taiwan Itinerary, Taipei Itinerary, Taichung Itinerary, Kaohsiung Itinerary
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