
Tianhou Temple Ximending Taipei
A serene, historic temple dedicated to Mazu, offering a peaceful escape amidst Ximending's vibrant energy.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Temple glows, Ximending buzzes

Tianhou Temple Ximending Taipei
Best Time
Temple glows, Ximending buzzes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, historic temple dedicated to Mazu, offering a peaceful escape amidst Ximending's vibrant energy.
"A charming temple nestled in the heart of Ximending, beautifully organized and offering a peaceful atmosphere."

🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of worship. Dress modestly and keep noise levels down.
⬆️ Explore Both Levels
Don't miss the upper level for a better view and more to see!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Architecture
Entire Temple
Marvel at intricate carvings, vibrant red lanterns, and colorful roof dragons that adorn this historic sanctuary.

Mazu's Shrine
Main Hall
Pay homage to Mazu, the revered sea goddess, and her guardian generals in the majestic main hall.

Peaceful Ambiance
Temple Interior
Find a moment of calm amidst Ximending's bustle in this beautifully organized and serene spiritual space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Nighttime Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of worship. Dress modestly and keep noise levels down.
⬆️ Explore Both Levels
Don't miss the upper level for a better view and more to see!
🏮 Nighttime Magic
Visit after dark for a unique atmosphere with illuminated lanterns.
📍 Easy Access
Conveniently located near Ximen MRT station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of worship. Dress modestly and keep noise levels down.
⬆️ Explore Both Levels
Don't miss the upper level for a better view and more to see!
🏮 Nighttime Magic
Visit after dark for a unique atmosphere with illuminated lanterns.
📍 Easy Access
Conveniently located near Ximen MRT station.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Taipei Tianhou Temple for its beautiful, ornate architecture and the peaceful atmosphere it offers amidst the bustling Ximending district. Many appreciate its historical significance and the opportunity to witness local religious practices. Some note that it's a smaller temple, best enjoyed in conjunction with exploring the surrounding vibrant neighborhood.
"This temple is amazing. I am so lucky I was there in nighttime . I. Like the smell of. That. What they are burning 🔥 it is something like a long stick. This temple. Has two. Levels. So remember to go upstairs as well to have a better view. The temple inside is majestic and people look very religious. This temple you can visit if you get off at Ximen train station. Around the temple is very busy and it feels like the city that never sleep. I suggest you visit ximen during night time."
Dimitris Apollonas Poseidonas Venetis
"Taipei Tianhou Temple is dedicated to Mazu, the revered sea goddess and protector of seafarers.
It is considered one of the "Three Great Temples of Bangka," alongside Longshan Temple and Qingshui Temple.
Originally established in 1746 by immigrants from Quanzhou, Fujian Province, it was first known as Xinxing Temple. The temple was destroyed by fire in 1813 and rebuilt over the following 12 years. During the Japanese colonial period, a Zen Buddhist temple named Hongfa Temple was built on the site in 1899, introducing Japanese architectural influences. After World War II, the temple was rededicated to Mazu. A fire in 1953 led to another major reconstruction, completed in 1959, following traditional Chinese temple design. In 1967, it was officially renamed Taipei Tianhou Temple.
Its architecture features ornate carvings, red lanterns, colorful roof dragons, and richly decorated beams. Inside, visitors can find shrines to Mazu and her guardian generals Qianliyan and Shunfeng’er, Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), Kōbō-Daishi (a reference to its Japanese past), the Earth God, and Tiger Generals."
Anna Krzak
"Such a beautiful small temple right in the city centre. Morning vibes are so nice. Locals come here to pray and place their offerings.
The beautiful details of this temple is worth mentioning. If you’re a tourist in and around this area, check out this temple.
Tourists should also keep in mind that this is not a tourist place and has religious significance. We should be respectful and not hinder other visitors who come here to pray."
K B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taipei Tianhou Temple is conveniently located near Ximen MRT station. Simply exit the station and it's a short walk into the bustling Ximending district. Many travelers find it easy to access on foot after arriving by public transport.
The most common way to reach Ximending is via the MRT Blue Line (Bannan Line) or Green Line (Songshan-Xindian Line) to Ximen Station. From there, it's a very short walk to the temple.
Parking in the Ximending area can be challenging due to its popularity. It's highly recommended to use public transportation like the MRT to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, you can take a taxi directly to the temple. However, be aware that traffic in Ximending can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Numerous bus routes serve the Ximending area, making it accessible by bus. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near Ximen MRT Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Taipei Tianhou Temple is free. It is a functioning place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter respectfully.
The temple is generally open from morning until late evening, allowing visitors to experience its ambiance both day and night. Specific hours can vary, but it's typically accessible for most of the day.
There is no admission fee to enter Taipei Tianhou Temple. Donations are welcome if you wish to contribute to its upkeep.
Yes, visiting Taipei Tianhou Temple at night is highly recommended. The temple is beautifully lit, and the surrounding Ximending area is vibrant.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find ornate carvings, shrines dedicated to Mazu and her guardians, Guanyin, and other deities. The temple has two levels, with the upper level offering a good view.
Yes, the temple's intricate architecture and vibrant decorations make it a great spot for photography, especially with the contrast of the surrounding modern city.
A visit can be as short as 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in exploring the details and observing the religious practices.
It's one of the 'Three Great Temples of Bangka,' dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess and protector of seafarers, and holds significant historical and religious importance.
Yes, visitors can light incense sticks as offerings. You'll find designated areas for this, and the scent of incense is a notable part of the temple's atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The temple itself does not have food vendors. However, it is located in the heart of Ximending, which is packed with diverse food stalls, restaurants, and cafes offering everything from local snacks to international cuisine.
Ximending offers a wide array of food, including Taiwanese street food like bubble tea, fried chicken, stinky tofu, and also international options. You'll find many popular eateries and dessert shops.
It's often recommended to explore the food scene in Ximending either before or after your temple visit, as the area is renowned for its culinary offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior with its colorful dragons and lanterns, the main altar with its intricate details, and the contrast between the temple and the bustling Ximending streets are all great for photos.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially when people are praying. Avoid using flash photography directly at worshippers or sacred areas.
Both daytime and nighttime offer unique photographic opportunities. Daytime captures the vibrant colors, while nighttime provides a magical glow from the lanterns and surrounding city lights.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in densely populated urban areas like Ximending and around religious sites due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A fast prime lens can be great for low-light conditions at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for a calmer experience, or in the early evening before Ximending gets too crowded. Afterwards, the surrounding area offers plenty of kid-friendly food options and entertainment, making it a good addition to a family's Taipei itinerary.
🚶 Solo Travelers
The temple provides a moment of quiet reflection amidst your adventures. It's a great spot to observe local customs and appreciate traditional Taiwanese architecture without a significant time commitment. The ease of access from Ximen MRT station makes it a convenient stop.
📸 Photographers
Aim for both daytime shots to capture the intricate carvings and roof dragons in natural light, and nighttime shots to photograph the temple illuminated by its red lanterns against the backdrop of the bustling city. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
Its designation as one of the "Three Great Temples of Bangka," alongside Longshan Temple and Qingshui Temple, underscores its cultural and religious importance in Taipei. The temple serves as a vital spiritual center for locals, particularly those connected to maritime traditions, and offers a tangible link to the city's past amidst its modern urban landscape.
The temple's architecture is a testament to its history, featuring ornate carvings, vibrant red lanterns, and colorful roof dragons. Inside, visitors can find shrines dedicated to Mazu, her guardian generals Qianliyan and Shunfeng'er, Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), and other deities, reflecting a blend of traditional beliefs and historical influences.
Experiencing Ximending's Vibe
Visitors often describe the area around the temple as feeling like 'the city that never sleeps.' The temple offers a peaceful sanctuary amidst the constant activity. Many travelers recommend visiting Ximending at night to fully experience its dynamic ambiance, with the temple's illuminated lanterns adding to the magical feel.
When visiting the temple, be prepared for the sensory experience of Ximending. The district is a hub for entertainment, shopping, and dining, offering a stark contrast to the quiet reverence inside the temple. This proximity allows for a well-rounded experience, combining cultural exploration with the excitement of a modern Taipei neighborhood.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit