Introduction to Songshan Ciyou Temple
Located at the eastern end of Raohe Street Night Market, Songshan Ciyou Temple (松山慈祐宮) is one of Taipei’s most iconic Taoist temples. Established in the 18th century and dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess worshipped across Taiwan, this vibrant religious site blends spiritual practice, community life, and ornate architecture.
It remains an essential destination for those interested in Taiwan’s cultural and religious heritage.
A Rich Historical Legacy
Founded in 1753 by local residents who wished to express their gratitude and seek protection from Mazu, Ciyou Temple has evolved alongside the Songshan neighborhood. The temple played a key role in local religious life, especially during the Qing Dynasty when trade and travel by sea were perilous.
Over the years, it has been restored and expanded, yet it retains the character of a historic community temple that has served generations of Taipei citizens.
A Masterpiece of Temple Art
The temple’s architecture is a visual feast. Colorful roof dragons, phoenixes, and divine figures dance above the main gate, while the interior features intricately carved woodwork, golden altars, and traditional murals. Fujian-style temple design dominates, complete with curved eaves and elaborate dragon columns.
Visitors often pause to admire these artistic features before stepping inside to explore the main prayer hall.
A Place of Living Worship
Songshan Ciyou Temple is more than a historical site—it’s a living place of faith. Locals and travelers alike come to light incense, draw fortune sticks, and pray to deities for health, safety, love, and success. Mazu remains the central figure, but you’ll also find altars to other gods such as the City God and the Earth God.
The temple is especially vibrant during religious festivals, when it hosts colorful rituals and parades.
Perfect Stop Before Raohe Night Market
One of the temple’s greatest draws is its location—right next to Raohe Street Night Market. Many visitors combine a cultural visit to the temple with a night of food, shopping, and local entertainment. This combination of sacred and everyday life offers a well-rounded experience of Taipei’s soul.
It’s common to see visitors offer prayers, then cross the street to enjoy local snacks like pepper buns and stinky tofu.
Why You Should Add Songshan Ciyou Temple to Your Taipei Itinerary
If you’re exploring Taipei and want a destination that offers history, culture, spirituality, and convenience all in one stop, Songshan Ciyou Temple is a must-visit. Situated right next to the lively Raohe Street Night Market, this centuries-old temple gives you a glimpse into Taiwan’s deep-rooted religious traditions and vibrant local life.
Key Reasons to Visit:
Stunning Traditional Architecture: The temple is a visual feast. From its dragon-adorned roof to its detailed stone carvings and golden altars, it showcases the finest in southern Chinese temple design. Perfect for architecture lovers and photographers.
Easily Combined with Raohe Night Market: Located just steps from the entrance of Raohe Street Night Market, you can enjoy spiritual peace at the temple and then dive into some of the best street food in Taipei—all in one outing.
Great for First-Time Visitors to Taiwan: Want to experience the spiritual side of Taiwan without going too far from the city? Songshan Ciyou Temple is welcoming, informative, and beginner-friendly—no need to speak Mandarin to appreciate its beauty and purpose.
Deities Worshipped at Songshan Ciyou Temple
Songshan Ciyou Temple is a vibrant Taoist temple located in Taipei, best known for its deep devotion to Mazu, the goddess of the sea. However, like many traditional temples in Taiwan, it houses a pantheon of Taoist and folk deities, each associated with a specific aspect of life—such as safety, health, fertility, education, and prosperity.
Here’s a closer look at the key deities enshrined within the temple and what they represent.
Mazu – Goddess of the Sea
Role: Primary deity of the temple
Worshipped for: Protection, safe travel, good fortune, and guidance
Mazu (媽祖) is the main goddess worshipped at Songshan Ciyou Temple. Believed to have been a real woman named Lin Moniang from Fujian Province during the Song Dynasty, she was revered after her death for her miracles and spiritual power. In Taiwan, she is one of the most widely worshipped deities, especially by coastal communities. Devotees often pray to her for safe journeys, especially when traveling overseas or across water, as well as for personal blessings and general protection.
Guanyin Bodhisattva – Goddess of Mercy
Worshipped for: Compassion, healing, and relief from suffering
Though Guanyin Bodhisattva (觀音菩薩) is originally from Buddhist belief, she is often incorporated into Taoist temples. Guanyin is known as the Goddess of Compassion, a kind-hearted figure who listens to the prayers of all beings. Worshippers often pray to her for healing, emotional support, and help during personal hardship. She is especially loved by women and those going through health or family struggles.
City God – Protector of the City and Spirits
Worshipped for: Social order, protection from misfortune, and moral justice
The City God (城隍爺) is a traditional Taoist deity responsible for watching over a city’s physical and spiritual well-being. People pray to him for community safety, to protect their homes, or to avoid misfortune. In Taoist belief, he also helps guide spirits of the dead and oversees moral conduct, making him both a divine protector and a spiritual judge.
Earth God – God of Wealth and Land
Worshipped for: Wealth, business prosperity, land protection
Also known as Tudigong, the Earth God (福德正神) is one of Taiwan’s most beloved deities. He is considered the spiritual manager of local land and property, often prayed to by business owners and farmers. Devotees seek his help for financial luck, career success, and smooth property-related affairs. Offerings to Tudigong are common among shopkeepers near the temple.
Zhusheng Niangniang – Goddess of Birth and Fertility
Worshipped for: Fertility, safe childbirth, and healthy children
Zhusheng Niangniang (註生娘娘) is the guardian of women who are trying to conceive or are expecting children. Families often come to her altar to pray for healthy pregnancies, protection during labor, and the well-being of newborns. Red thread or red paper charms are sometimes placed near her altar as part of fertility rituals.
Wenchang Dijun – God of Literature and Exams
Worshipped for: Academic success, wisdom, passing exams
Wenchang Dijun (文昌帝君) is the deity of scholars, students, and writers. During exam seasons, many students come to pray for good luck, focus, and favorable test outcomes. Offerings often include pens, notebooks, or red slips with a student’s name written on them. His popularity spikes during college entrance exam periods or before government exams.
Additional Deities (May vary by season or temple events)
Some smaller side altars may feature:
Baosheng Dadi (保生大帝) – God of medicine and healing
Guan Yu (關聖帝君) – God of loyalty, righteousness, and protection
The Kitchen God (灶君) – Oversees family unity and household morality
How to Pray at Songshan Ciyou Temple
Praying at a traditional Taiwanese temple like Songshan Ciyou Temple is a peaceful and personal experience. Whether you’re religious or simply curious about local customs, the process is easy to follow and welcomed by temple staff and worshippers alike.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Get Incense Sticks
You can pick up free incense at the front counter or donation box area. Three sticks are standard for each main altar.
State Your Information Silently
In front of the deity, silently say your full name, date of birth (including lunar if known), current address, and your prayer or wish. You may pray for health, safety, love, exams, or anything close to your heart.
Bow Three Times
Holding the incense with both hands, bow three times to the deity in front of you. Then place the incense in the burner.
Pray in a Clockwise Order
After praying to the main goddess (Mazu), continue to other altars in a clockwise direction. You may pray to Guanyin, Tudigong, Wenchang Dijun, and others depending on your wishes.
Optional: Draw a Fortune Stick
If you seek guidance, you can draw a numbered fortune stick (求籤) and confirm it using moon blocks (擲筊). Each number corresponds to a written fortune (籤詩), available nearby.
Full-Day Taipei Itinerary
- 07:30 – Hike Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain Trail)
Start your day with a nature walk and the best city views of Taipei.
The trail is short but steep — around 20–30 minutes to the top.
Don’t forget your camera — the panoramic view of Taipei 101 is iconic, especially in morning light.
Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Access: MRT Xiangshan Station (Red Line), Exit 2 → Walk 10 minutes to the trailhead
- 10:00 – Visit Taipei 101 Observatory
Head to the Taipei 101 Observation Deck for a full 360° skyline view from the 89th floor.
Learn about the world’s largest tuned mass damper, and grab a coffee at the top if open.
Duration: 1.5 hour
Book tickets online in advance to skip the line
- 12:00 – Explore Xinyi Shopping District + Lunch at a Food Court
Walk through Taipei’s high-end shopping area, featuring malls like Taipei 101 Mall, ATT 4 FUN, and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi.
Have lunch in a stylish food court — try local Taiwanese dishes, sushi, or bubble tea.
Din Tai Fung (in Taipei 101) for xiaolongbao (make reservations)
- 14:30 – Visit Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (松山文創園區)
Formerly a tobacco factory, this creative hub now hosts art exhibits, local brands, handmade goods, and cafés.
Great spot for unique souvenirs and artsy Instagram photos.
Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Walkable from Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Station or take a short ride from Xinyi District
- 16:00 – Shop at Wufenpu Garment Market (五分埔成衣商圈)
Taipei’s largest wholesale fashion district. Great for bargain fashion, accessories, and Korean-style outfits.
Most shops cater to women’s fashion, but men’s and kids’ clothing can also be found.
Duration: 1 hour
10-minute walk from Songshan Station
- 18:00 – Visit Songshan Ciyou Temple (松山慈祐宮)
Discover traditional Taiwanese temple culture at this colorful Mazu temple, founded in 1753.
Light incense, make a wish, and admire the elaborate architecture.
Duration: 30 minutes
Near MRT Songshan Station, at the entrance of Raohe Night Market
- 18:30 – Dinner at Raohe Street Night Market (饒河夜市)
End the day with a flavorful bang. This lively night market offers classic Taiwanese street food.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Entrance is right beside Songshan Ciyou Temple
- Suggested Transport
Start at Xiangshan Station (Red Line)
Transfer to Blue Line or Green Line throughout the day
End at Songshan Station (Green Line) — easy ride back to Ximending, Taipei Main Station, or your hotel
Things to Do in Songshan Ciyou Temple
Songshan Ciyou Temple is not just a place of worship—it’s a living cultural site filled with rituals, symbolism, and community spirit. Whether you’re spiritual or simply curious, there are many enriching ways to experience this historic temple.
Pray to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea
As the main deity of the temple, Mazu (媽祖) is revered for her protection over travelers, fishermen, and families. Worshippers light incense sticks and bow three times in front of her golden statue, silently offering their name, date of birth, and wishes.
Whether you’re asking for safety, health, or guidance, praying to Mazu allows you to experience firsthand how spiritual devotion remains central to everyday life in Taiwan. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to participate respectfully.
Key Points:
Ask for protection, blessings, and safe travels
Experience Taiwanese folk religion firsthand
Draw a Fortune Stick
One of the most popular interactive rituals at Ciyou Temple is drawing a fortune stick (求籤). After praying, you’ll shake a bamboo tube until one numbered stick falls out. This number corresponds to a poetic slip of paper, which contains a spiritual message or prediction about your question.
Many locals also confirm their fortune by tossing moon blocks (擲筊)—crescent-shaped wooden pieces used to seek divine approval. It’s a fun and deeply cultural way to reflect on life choices or seek divine wisdom.
Key Points:
Receive spiritual guidance through a traditional poem-style fortune
Practice an ancient ritual used for decision-making and reflection
Admire the Temple’s Intricate Architecture
The temple’s architecture is a vibrant example of southern Chinese (Fujian-style) craftsmanship, filled with intricate carvings, brightly colored roof dragons, and symbolic reliefs depicting historical and mythological scenes. The rooftop alone is a storytelling canvas featuring gods, tigers, and phoenixes, while the interior is rich with incense, golden statues, and painted beams.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a casual traveler, it’s hard not to be awed by the artistic and cultural richness packed into this sacred space.
Key Points:
Observe detailed carvings, dragon pillars, and colorful roof tiles
Learn about southern Fujian-style architecture
Offer Prayers to Other Deities
Beyond Mazu, the temple hosts numerous altars devoted to other gods representing various aspects of life—Guanyin (goddess of mercy), Wenchang Dijun (god of literature), Zhusheng Niangniang (fertility goddess), and Tudigong (earth and wealth god).
Each deity serves a different purpose, and locals often go altar to altar offering incense or food while making specific requests. Whether you’re seeking love, luck, or academic success, there’s a spiritual space here for nearly every human concern.
Key Points:
Pray for academic success, health, wealth, or fertility
Explore multiple altars, each with its own purpose
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: 05:30-22:30
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Songshan Ciyou Temple is late afternoon to early evening, especially around 4 PM to 6 PM. This timing lets you enjoy the temple’s serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive, and perfectly sets you up to explore the vibrant Raohe Street Night Market once it opens around 5 PM.
Visiting on a weekday can offer a quieter experience, while weekends and festival days, particularly during Mazu’s birthday (the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month), bring lively processions and traditional performances.
For those seeking pleasant weather, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to explore Taipei comfortably without the summer heat or winter chill.
How to Get to Songshan Ciyou Temple
By MRT (Metro)
Take the Green Line to Songshan Station (G19)
Exit 5, walk 1–2 minutes to the temple
Best for: tourists, first-time visitors, quick access
By TRA Train
Ride to Songshan Railway Station
3-minute walk north to the temple
Best for: regional travelers or coming from outside Taipei
By Bus
Get off at “Raohe Street Intersection” or “Songshan Station”
Walk 2–3 minutes to the temple
Best for: visitors from MRT-free neighborhoods