Longshan Temple Taipei
A historic Buddhist and Taoist temple in Taipei, renowned for its stunning architecture, serene ambiance, and vibrant cultural rituals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape crowds & heat
Longshan Temple Taipei
Best Time
Escape crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buddhist and Taoist temple in Taipei, renowned for its stunning architecture, serene ambiance, and vibrant cultural rituals.
"Felt so peaceful as soon as we stepped in this temple, a calming sight in the heart of the city."
🎯 Visit After Dark
The temple is beautifully lit at night, offering a peaceful experience away from daytime crowds and heat.
🙏 Observe Local Prayers
See locals engage in unique fortune-telling rituals using wooden blocks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Hall
Central area
Marvel at the intricate architecture and vibrant colors of the main hall, a spiritual heart of the temple.
Fortune Telling Ritual
Near the main hall
Witness or participate in the traditional 'bao buei' fortune-telling with crescent-shaped wooden blocks.
Waterfall Entrance
Temple entrance
Admire the unique waterfall feature at the entrance, a striking contrast to the traditional temple design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace Local Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit After Dark
The temple is beautifully lit at night, offering a peaceful experience away from daytime crowds and heat.
🙏 Observe Local Prayers
See locals engage in unique fortune-telling rituals using wooden blocks.
Help me blow the mind of my dad! (recommendations)
First time traveling to Taiwan, please help review my itinerary 6 days - 5 nights
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Market
The temple is walking distance to a local street market, worth exploring for unique finds.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Admire the colorful walls, roofs, and the unique waterfall at the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit After Dark
The temple is beautifully lit at night, offering a peaceful experience away from daytime crowds and heat.
🙏 Observe Local Prayers
See locals engage in unique fortune-telling rituals using wooden blocks.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Market
The temple is walking distance to a local street market, worth exploring for unique finds.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Admire the colorful walls, roofs, and the unique waterfall at the entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Longshan Temple for its serene atmosphere, stunning traditional architecture, and the unique cultural experience of observing local prayer rituals. Many recommend visiting in the evening for beautiful lighting and fewer crowds, highlighting its peaceful ambiance amidst the city.
"Recommend coming at night to escape the crowds and the heat. Beautiful lighting at night also makes it more interesting. Enjoy the traditional architecture and feel a sense of peace as you enter the temple. You will see locals praying and throwing wooden pieces on the floor - it's a form of fortune telling. You ask a question to Buddha, then throw the wooden pieces on the floor and interpret the meaning based on how they land.
There's a small shop to buy rosery and good luck charms."
Hung Thai
"Nice relatively large temple located in the middle of the city. If you're into cultural/religious stuff it's definitely worth a visit.
Try going during one of the chanting ceremonies to make it more special. Do be mindful since there are a lot of local visitors who go there to pray."
C. D.
"We felt so peaceful as soon as we stepped in this temple. Although it was quite packed with tourists, you could still feel the tranquillity. It’s interesting to see the contrasts between the temple and the backdrop of the city. Enjoy the beautiful colored walls and roofs and the waterfall at the entrance."
Hannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Longshan Temple is easily accessible via the Taipei Metro. Take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Longshan Temple Station. The temple is a short walk from Exit 1.
Yes, Longshan Temple is conveniently located near Ximending. You can walk between the two locations, which takes about 15-20 minutes.
From Taipei Main Station, take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) directly to Longshan Temple Station. The journey is quick and straightforward.
Parking can be challenging in the area. It's highly recommended to use public transportation like the MRT to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Taipei. You can tell your driver to go to 'Longshan Temple' (Lungshan Temple).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Longshan Temple is free to enter. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple grounds and admire its architecture without any admission charge.
Longshan Temple is generally open from early morning until late evening, typically around 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours.
Yes, visiting Longshan Temple at night is highly recommended. The temple is beautifully illuminated, offering a serene and magical atmosphere.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting this sacred site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'bao buei' is a traditional fortune-telling method where visitors ask a question to the deities and then throw two crescent-shaped wooden blocks. The way they land provides an answer.
Longshan Temple is unique as it honors both Buddhist and Taoist deities, including Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), Mazu (Goddess of the Sea), and various other gods.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
Explore the intricate carvings, colorful roof decorations, the unique waterfall at the entrance, and the peaceful courtyards.
Yes, there is a small shop where you can purchase rosaries, good luck charms, and other religious items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Longshan Temple is known for its vibrant street food scene and local eateries. You can find many delicious options nearby.
You can find traditional Taiwanese snacks, local delicacies, and various street food options. Some Reddit users have mentioned trying snake soup in the vicinity.
While not directly adjacent, the popular Ximending area is within walking distance and offers a wide array of food and shopping.
Eating is generally not permitted inside the main prayer halls to maintain the sanctity of the temple. There are usually designated areas outside.
Yong He Soy Milk is a popular Taiwanese chain known for its traditional soy milk, savory pancakes, and other breakfast items. It's a great spot for a quick bite.
📸 📸 Photography
The main hall's intricate roof details, the colorful facade, the waterfall entrance, and the temple grounds offer great photo opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash in prayer areas.
Evenings are fantastic for photography due to the temple's beautiful illumination. Daytime offers vibrant colors, but can be crowded.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around religious sites to ensure peace and safety. Always check local regulations.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for evening shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit during less crowded times, perhaps early evening, to ensure a more comfortable experience for younger ones. Explain the significance of the temple as a place of respect and prayer. Nearby, the bustling street markets offer a chance for kids to try local snacks, making it a well-rounded outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding street markets for affordable and delicious local food. The temple is also easily accessible via the MRT, which is a cost-effective way to get around Taipei. This makes it a perfect addition to any budget-friendly itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart of Taipei
Visitors often remark on the profound sense of peace they feel upon entering, even amidst the crowds. The contrast between the ancient temple and the modern city skyline surrounding it is striking. The temple is dedicated to a syncretic pantheon, with Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, being a central figure, alongside Mazu, the sea goddess, and other deities. This inclusivity is a hallmark of Taiwanese folk religion.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Longshan Temple is a hub of local religious activity. Witnessing locals engage in prayer, light incense, and perform rituals like the 'bao buei' fortune-telling offers a unique glimpse into daily spiritual life. The temple also hosts chanting ceremonies, which can add an even more immersive dimension to a visit.
Experiencing the 'Bao Buei' Ritual
The interpretation of the 'bao buei' depends on how the blocks land. If one lands flat side up and the other rounded side up, it's considered a 'yes' or favorable answer. If both land flat side up or both rounded side up, it signifies a 'no' or unfavorable response. This ritual is a deeply ingrained part of the temple's spiritual practice and a captivating cultural experience for visitors.
While the ritual is straightforward, understanding the nuances of the deities' responses can be complex. Many visitors find it a unique and memorable way to connect with the temple's spiritual energy. It's a practice that highlights the personal and interactive nature of faith in Taiwan.
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