Introduction to Xingtian Temple
Located in the bustling Zhongshan District, Xingtian Temple (Hsing Tian Kong) is one of the most visited temples in Taipei, drawing locals and tourists alike. With its wide courtyard, peaceful atmosphere, and unique modern touches, the temple offers a serene space for reflection right in the heart of the city.
Unlike many traditional temples, Xingtian Temple is known for its clean, simple layout and strong emphasis on inner sincerity rather than elaborate rituals.
Dedicated to the God of War – Guan Yu
The temple is primarily devoted to Guan Yu (關聖帝君), a deified general from the Three Kingdoms era who symbolizes loyalty, bravery, and justice. In Taoist and Chinese folk belief, Guan Yu is revered not just as a warrior, but also as a spiritual protector and patron of business, law, and integrity.
Many people pray here for guidance, protection, and strength in times of challenge—especially entrepreneurs, students, and professionals.
A Unique Temple with No Incense or Offerings
One of the most distinct features of Xingtian Temple is its no-incense and no-burn policy, which was introduced in 2014. Unlike traditional temples filled with smoke, visitors here engage in silent, personal prayer without physical offerings.
The temple promotes eco-friendly practices and spiritual sincerity, encouraging a cleaner environment and a more focused connection with the divine.
A Place for Spiritual Cleansing and Guidance
Just outside the temple, visitors can participate in a special ritual of spiritual purification (收驚) performed by trained volunteers. This ancient Taoist practice is believed to remove negative energy and restore mental balance.
In addition, people often come to Xingtian Temple to draw divination sticks (抽籤) or seek insight into personal concerns like health, relationships, and career paths.
Easily Accessible and Welcoming
Conveniently located near Xingtian Temple MRT Station, the temple is just steps away from Exit 3. It’s one of the most accessible temples in Taipei, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
The open design, friendly volunteers, and organized layout make it a welcoming space—even for those unfamiliar with Taiwanese religious traditions.
A Peaceful Pause in a Busy City
In a city full of lively night markets and tourist attractions, Xingtian Temple offers a quiet escape into spiritual calm and cultural heritage. Whether you visit for prayer, reflection, or curiosity, the temple provides a meaningful experience rooted in values of respect, self-discipline, and integrity.
It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern Taiwanese spirituality.
Deities Worshiped at Xingtian Temple
Xingtian Temple, located in the Zhongshan District of Taipei, is a modern Taoist temple known for its clean, simple design and vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Founded in 1967, it’s dedicated primarily to Lord Guan (Guansheng Dijun) and emphasizes personal reflection, good morals, and respectful worship — so much so that incense and joss paper burning are not allowed here.
Here are the key deities you can find worshiped at Xingtian Temple:
Guansheng Dijun (關聖帝君 – Lord Guan)
Role: The main deity of the temple, based on the historical figure Guan Yu from the Three Kingdoms period. He is revered for his loyalty, bravery, and righteousness.
Why people pray to him: For career protection, business success, justice, and moral guidance.
Lord Guan is considered a symbol of integrity and is widely worshiped by professionals, entrepreneurs, and civil servants in Taiwan.
Wenchang Dijun (文昌帝君 – God of Literature)
Role: God of education and scholarship.
Why people pray to him: For academic achievement, passing exams, and literary talent.
Many students and parents visit during exam season. No need for incense—just silently make your wish and bow respectfully.
Yuehui Dadi (月慧大帝 – Great Emperor of Wisdom and Enlightenment)
Role: A Taoist deity representing wisdom, clarity of thought, and spiritual guidance.
Why people pray to him: To gain insight, make better decisions, and improve communication or leadership skills.
This deity is often prayed to by professionals in law, politics, or management roles.
Fuyou Dadi (孚佑帝君 – Immortal Lü Dongbin)
Role: One of the Eight Immortals in Taoism, he is believed to help with mental clarity, health, and spiritual cultivation.
Why people pray to him: For wisdom, focus, and protection from confusion or negative thoughts.
Often revered by those dealing with stress, anxiety, or mental fatigue.
Zhang Dan (張單尊神)
Role: A general under Guan Yu, often worshiped as a guardian or protector spirit.
Why people pray to him: For general protection and to ward off misfortune.
Zhang Dan is not widely known outside of Taoist temples, but he plays a key supporting role at Xingtian Temple.
Worship Etiquette at Xingtian Temple
What makes Xingtian Temple unique is its modern, incense-free approach to worship, focusing on quiet sincerity rather than ritualistic burning.
Key points:
● No incense, candles, or paper money are used.
● Visitors bow three times silently at each altar.
● Free fortune-telling services (using bamboo sticks) are offered by temple volunteers.
● You can visit the spiritual cleansing station (收驚) near the exit, where volunteers perform a simple ritual to remove bad energy.
How to Receive a Free Spiritual Cleansing at Xingtian Temple
Here’s a clear and respectful guide on how to receive a free spiritual consultation or “spiritual cleansing” (收驚) at Xingtian Temple (行天宮) — a unique and meaningful ritual for many local visitors.
In Taiwanese folk belief, 收驚 (shōu jīng) is a ritual used to calm the spirit and remove nervousness, bad luck, or “spiritual disturbances.” It’s especially helpful if you’re feeling anxious, uneasy, or emotionally off balance — and it’s offered free of charge at Xingtian Temple.
Where to Go
● The Spiritual Cleansing Pavilion (收驚) is located on the right side of the temple’s outer courtyard, near the exit.
● Look for a row of booths with volunteers wearing yellow vests seated behind wooden tables.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Line up calmly in front of the volunteer stations. No reservations are needed, and the process is quick and respectful.
2. State your name silently or softly (some people whisper their Chinese name or just give their full name in their head while standing).
3. The temple volunteer will wave a stack of paper charms (符紙) or perform gentle circular motions over your head while reciting protective chants.
4. After about 30–60 seconds, they will hand you a paper charm (符). This may be:
● Burned at home
● Placed under your pillow
● Kept in your wallet for protection
5. Thank the volunteer with a small bow. Donations are not required, and tipping is discouraged — this is a spiritual service.
Tips and Notes
● It’s open to locals and tourists alike — just be respectful and wait your turn.
● If you don’t speak Chinese, you can gesture politely, or say:
“shōu jīng? (收驚)”
Most volunteers will understand and guide you through it.
● This ritual is not religious-specific — many visitors do it for spiritual peace, especially during stressful times or big life changes.
How to Perform a Prayer at Xingtian Temple
Xingtian Temple is known for its incense-free and offering-free approach. Here’s how to respectfully pray:
Steps to Pray:
● Stand quietly before the main deity (Guan Yu) at the altar.
● Put your hands together in front of your chest, and bow slightly three times.
● Silently express your prayer—speak from the heart. Be clear about what you’re asking for (e.g., success, health, peace, guidance).
● After praying, bow again to give thanks.
Tip: You don’t need to bring offerings or light incense. Sincerity is what matters here.
How to Draw a Fortune Stick
Xingtian Temple offers a traditional kau cim (fortune stick 抽籤) process for those seeking divine advice.
Steps to Draw a Stick:
● Take a cylindrical bamboo container (available on-site) filled with numbered sticks.
● Hold your question in mind—it should be clear and specific (like “Will I succeed in my new job?”).
● Shake the container gently until one stick falls out.
● Note the number on the stick, then place it back and return the container.
● Go to the interpretation counter or check the posted guide to read your fortune.
Tip: Some volunteers may be able to explain the meaning in basic English or Mandarin if you need help.
Things to Do at Xingtian Temple
Pray to Guan Yu for Strength and Guidance
The main activity at Xingtian Temple is praying to Guan Yu, the God of War and Righteousness. Visitors often come to seek help in their studies, business, or legal matters. Unlike traditional temples, there’s no need to bring offerings or burn incense—just offer a quiet, respectful prayer with a sincere heart.
Key Point:
Guan Yu is believed to protect the honest and support those facing challenges.
The temple encourages silent, inward-focused prayer over physical offerings.
Experience a Spiritual Cleansing Ritual
Outside the main hall, volunteers perform “shoujing” (收驚)—a Taoist ritual for removing negative energy and restoring inner peace. The ritual is free and often used by those feeling anxious, fatigued, or emotionally unsettled.
Key Point:
Volunteers wave wooden charms over your body in a calming ritual.
Great for emotional reset and mental clarity.
Draw a Fortune Stick
Visitors can draw kau cim (fortune sticks 抽籤) for personal insight or spiritual guidance. After shaking a bamboo container until one stick falls out, take it to a nearby interpretation area or use the posted guide to read your result.
Key Point:
Each stick corresponds to a poetic message with a life lesson.
People consult the fortune for decisions on love, career, or health.
Stroll Through the Peaceful Courtyard
Xingtian Temple’s open-air courtyard provides a tranquil space for reflection. With its simple architectural style, dragon-adorned roofs, and serene stone benches, it’s a peaceful break from the city noise.
Key Point:
A quiet space perfect for meditation or journaling.
Great photo opportunity without the crowds of larger temples.
Observe or Participate in Taoist Rites
Depending on the time of day, you may witness a brief ceremony or see temple volunteers reading scriptures or organizing offerings. These moments give a glimpse into Taiwanese Taoist practices and temple life.
Key Point:
Open to the public—watch respectfully from the side.
Helps deepen understanding of Taiwan’s living folk religion.
Touching the Pebbles Brings Good Luck
There is a “landscape boulder” in front of the main entrance of Xingtian Temple in Taipei. It is recorded on the stone that this is the core of a huge stone that was chiseled out when the Sanxia branch temple was leveling the land. Believers burning incense rub their hands on the stones to pray for good luck, which has become another scenic spot of Xingtian Temple.
Temple Etiquette in Taiwan
Visiting a temple in Taiwan is both a spiritual and cultural experience, and it’s important to follow some basic etiquette to show respect.
Enter Through the Right Door, Exit on the Left
Which Doors Do I Walk Through?
Traditionally, the entrance and exit process follows a symbolic order. The main gate has three doors, and each has meaning in Taiwanese religious culture. Enter through the dragon gate (right side) and exit through the tiger gate (left side). The central door is usually reserved for the gods or special ceremonies—do not to walk through it unless permitted.
If you’re visiting a Temple for the first time, understanding which door to use—and why—can enhance both your cultural experience and your respect for local customs. Here’s a simple guide:
Enter Through the Dragon Door (Right Side)
As you face the temple from the front, the door on the right is called the “Dragon Gate” (龍門).
This is the proper entrance.
In Chinese culture, the dragon represents auspicious energy, power, and growth.
Visitors and worshippers should enter from the right side to show respect and follow tradition.
Exit Through the Tiger Door (Left Side)
After your visit or worship, exit using the door on the left, known as the “Tiger Gate” (虎門).
The tiger represents protection and balance in traditional belief.
Using this left-side exit follows the natural yin-yang flow of energy through the temple.
This practice symbolizes a complete spiritual journey—you enter to connect, and leave with blessing and harmony.
Avoid Walking Through the Center Door
Do not to walk through it unless permitted
The center door is usually reserved for gods, temple staff, or special religious leaders.
This door is considered sacred and is often roped off or left unused by the public.
Walking through the center gate is traditionally seen as disrespectful unless you are part of an official procession or ceremony.
Pro Tip: There are signs near the doors in Chinese (and often in English), but if unsure, follow what locals are doing — and walk quietly and respectfully.
Dress Code for Visiting Temples in Taiwan
Eating upon entering a temple is not permitted. You can enter most Taiwanese temples if you are wearing a vest, shorts, skirt, sandals, sunglasses, etc.
There is no special dress code for visiting temples in Taiwan. Just wear normal clothes. In the minds of locals, you can wear whatever you like, but you must dress modestly in the temple.
What to Wear
Taiwanese temples are generally welcoming, but modest and respectful attire is appreciated, especially in religious or prayer areas.
Recommended attire includes:
Tops: T-shirts, blouses, or shirts that cover the shoulders and chest
Bottoms: Pants, long skirts, or knee-length shorts
Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals (you usually don’t have to remove them unless entering a shrine room)
What to Avoid
While you won’t be turned away for casual wear, it’s best to avoid:
Very short shorts or mini skirts
Clothing with offensive logos, profanity, or heavy political messages
Cultural Considerations
No need for head coverings, unless you’re joining a specific Buddhist ritual where it’s customary.
Always dress more conservatively if you’re visiting during a religious holiday, festival, or ceremony.
Remove hats and sunglasses inside shrine areas as a sign of respect.
Be Quiet and Respectful
Keep your voice low and your phone on silent mode. Avoid running, shouting, or treating the temple like a tourist attraction. Photography is usually allowed in public areas but avoid flash or taking photos of worshippers.
Follow Local Customs When Drawing Fortune Sticks
When drawing a divination stick (求籤), first state your name, date of birth, and question silently to the deity. Shake the bamboo cylinder gently until one stick falls out. Be respectful with the ritual—even if you’re doing it for fun.
Bonus Tip: Ask If You’re Unsure
Temple volunteers or caretakers are often happy to help explain customs. If you’re not sure how to behave, simply observe locals or ask politely in English or with translation apps.
Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 04:00–22:00
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
Anytime. Xingtian Temple is conveniently located near Taipei’s bustling commercial areas, making it an accessible spot for both locals and tourists to stop by for a moment of spiritual solace or cultural exploration. The temple provides an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
Visitors can experience the rituals, watch locals perform prayers, and enjoy the temple’s serene setting, with the aroma of incense and the sound of chanting filling the air. The temple complex also houses several shops where visitors can buy religious items, incense, and traditional crafts, as well as souvenirs related to Taoist practices.
Traditional religions emphasize peace and security – praying for good luck.
How to Get to Xingtian Temple
By MRT – The Quickest and Easiest Way
The most convenient way to reach Xingtian Temple is by taking the Taipei MRT Orange Line (Zhonghe–Xinlu Line) to Xingtian Temple Station (O09).
Use Exit 3, then walk straight for about 5 to 8 minutes along Minquan East Road—you’ll see the temple right ahead.
By Bus – Great If You’re Nearby
Plenty of buses stop near the temple, including routes like 5, 41, 72, 109, 214, 225, 277, 612, 643, 685, and many others.
Get off at either “Xingtian Temple” (行天宮) or “Minquan–Songjiang” (民權松江路口) stop. From there, it’s just a short walk.