Zhinan Temple Taipei
A majestic Taoist temple offering spiritual serenity and breathtaking city views, accessible via scenic gondola or invigorating hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Zhinan Temple Taipei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic Taoist temple offering spiritual serenity and breathtaking city views, accessible via scenic gondola or invigorating hike.
"A peaceful escape with stunning views, Zhinan Temple is a must-visit for tranquility and culture."
🎯 Weekday Visits for Peace
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on a weekday for a truly serene experience.
🚶♀️ Hike or Gondola?
Choose between a scenic gondola ride or a challenging hike up the temple stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Imposing Stairway to Serenity
Temple Entrance
Ascend the grand staircase, rumored to add seconds to your life with each step. A truly spiritual and invigorating climb.

Panoramic City Vistas
Temple Grounds
Enjoy breathtaking views of Taipei's skyline, including Taipei 101, especially on clear days.

Tranquil Tea Gardens
Near Maokong Gondola Station
Explore the serene tea gardens surrounding the temple, offering a peaceful escape and a taste of local culture.

Resident Temple Cats
Temple Grounds
Encounter friendly feline residents who add a unique charm and warmth to the temple's peaceful atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Visits Recommended
Gondola or Hike: Choose Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekday Visits for Peace
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on a weekday for a truly serene experience.
🚶♀️ Hike or Gondola?
Choose between a scenic gondola ride or a challenging hike up the temple stairs.
📸 Capture the Views
Clear days offer stunning panoramic views of Taipei, perfect for photography.
🐈 Meet the Temple Cats
Enjoy the company of friendly resident cats that roam the temple grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekday Visits for Peace
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on a weekday for a truly serene experience.
🚶♀️ Hike or Gondola?
Choose between a scenic gondola ride or a challenging hike up the temple stairs.
📸 Capture the Views
Clear days offer stunning panoramic views of Taipei, perfect for photography.
🐈 Meet the Temple Cats
Enjoy the company of friendly resident cats that roam the temple grounds.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors highly recommend Zhinan Temple for its serene atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of Taipei, especially on clear days. Many appreciate the peacefulness, particularly when visiting on weekdays, and enjoy the unique charm of the resident cats. While some parts may be under renovation, the overall experience is described as calming and spiritually uplifting.
"Highly recommended to go on weekdays. Literally no people, super chill and beautiful.
Amazing sunsets and mountain views."
FRQA
"Peaceful place. I went there on a weekday, so there weren't many people. Most tourists take the cable car from Taipei Zoo to get here. However, I took the 530 bus in front of NCCU to get to the hill and then walked the stairs, as my friend and I wanted to do a bit of hiking. It was quite tiring, but based on our research, they believe that each step of the stair can extend your life by 20 seconds! Haha. (If you start from the very beginning, the staircase has 1000 steps, but we started from the middle part.)
The view from my picture could have been better if the weather was sunny."
Earn S.
"I had a great experience going to those temple. It was serene and the weather was perfect. I love the resident cats that roam around the place. They add warmth to the place."
Zhel Tethys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Zhinan Temple via the Maokong Gondola from Taipei Zoo Station, offering scenic views along the way.
Alternatively, you can take the 530 bus from NCCU to the hill and then hike up the stairs. Some visitors also enjoy trail running to the temple.The Maokong Gondola provides a beautiful journey up the mountain, with stunning views of Taipei and the surrounding nature, making it a popular choice for many visitors.
While driving is possible, parking can be limited. The most common and recommended ways to access the temple are via the Maokong Gondola or public bus followed by a walk or hike.
Many visitors combine a visit to Zhinan Temple with a ride on the Maokong Gondola and exploring the nearby tea plantations for a full day trip.
Yes, Zhinan Temple is accessible by public transport. You can take the Maokong Gondola or specific bus routes that lead to the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Zhinan Temple itself is free to enter. However, there is a cost associated with the Maokong Gondola ride if you choose to use it for access.
The temple grounds are generally open from early morning until evening. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours or temporary closures.
Yes, there is a fee for the Maokong Gondola. You can book tickets in advance through platforms like Klook for convenience.
While parts of the temple may undergo renovations, the main areas are usually accessible. Visitors have reported seeing parts under renovation during their visits.
No specific booking is required to enter Zhinan Temple itself. However, booking the Maokong Gondola in advance is recommended, especially during peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Zhinan Temple, you can explore the impressive architecture, climb the long staircase, enjoy panoramic city views, and find peace in the serene surroundings. You might also encounter friendly temple cats.
The grand staircase, the main temple halls, and viewpoints offering vistas of Taipei's skyline are excellent photo spots. The surrounding tea gardens also provide picturesque backdrops.
Yes, Zhinan Temple is a popular destination for hikers. You can hike up to the temple, and there are also trails in the surrounding Maokong area.
The long staircase leading to the temple is a notable feature, with a local belief that each step can add seconds to your life. It's a spiritual climb for many visitors.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are available at Zhinan Temple and the nearby Maokong Gondola station.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons during the golden hour offer beautiful lighting for photos. Clear days provide the best visibility for capturing the city skyline.
Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites and scenic areas to maintain peace and respect. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens for capturing both the temple architecture and the expansive city views is recommended. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grand staircase and vistas.
Photography rules can vary inside religious buildings. It's advisable to observe any posted signs or ask for permission before taking photos inside the main temple halls.
The main entrance with its grand staircase, the various pagodas and statues, and the viewpoints overlooking Taipei are highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Maokong Gondola Experience
Many visitors combine a trip to Zhinan Temple with an exploration of Maokong's famous tea houses. After disembarking, you can wander through lush tea plantations, sample local Oolong teas, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It's a perfect way to experience both the spiritual and cultural aspects of the area. Remember to check the gondola's operating hours, as they can vary, and consider booking tickets in advance, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid long queues.
Pro-tip: Look out for the "crystal cabins" with glass floors for a thrilling perspective of the landscape below. The journey provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty and urban sprawl of Taipei simultaneously.
Hiking and Trail Running to Zhinan Temple
Trail runners have specifically mentioned enjoying the routes around Zhinan Temple, highlighting the opportunity to combine their passion for running with exploring a significant cultural site. The trails can be varied, offering different levels of difficulty and scenic rewards. It's essential to be prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and to check trail conditions, especially after rain.
Key Considerations for Hikers:
* Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the stairs and trails.
* Hydration: Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
* Navigation: While trails are generally well-marked, having a map or GPS can be helpful for longer routes.
The Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Beyond its religious importance, the temple serves as a peaceful sanctuary amidst the bustling city. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene and calming, providing a welcome respite from urban life. The blend of spiritual elements with the natural beauty of its mountain setting creates a unique and contemplative environment. Many find solace and a sense of tranquility during their visit, making it more than just a tourist attraction but a place for personal reflection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit