July 22, 2025
Introduction to Longshan Temple
Nestled in the bustling Wanhua District of Taipei, Longshan Temple is more than just a religious site—it’s a living symbol of Taiwan’s deep cultural roots and spiritual harmony. Built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, it has become one of the most famous and beloved temples in Taiwan, attracting both locals and international travelers.
Here, incense smoke drifts through the air, the soft chanting of prayers resonates across the halls, and traditional architecture stands tall amid modern urban life. Visiting Longshan Temple offers a unique look into Taiwanese folk religion and a serene escape from the city’s fast pace.
Historical Background
Longshan Temple was originally built in 1738 by Han Chinese immigrants from Fujian Province during the Qing Dynasty. It was named after the Longshan Temple in Quanzhou, reflecting the settlers’ desire to carry their spiritual roots with them to Taiwan. Over the centuries, it has served as both a spiritual sanctuary and a gathering place for the local community.
Despite enduring major damage from earthquakes, typhoons, fires, and even American bombing during World War II, the temple has been lovingly restored time and again by local residents. Today, it stands not only as a house of worship but also as a symbol of Taiwanese resilience and devotion.
Architectural Features
Longshan Temple showcases classic southern Chinese temple architecture, rich in color, symbolism, and craftsmanship. The structure is built in the traditional three-hall layout with a front hall, main hall, and rear hall, all interconnected by covered corridors and open courtyards. The roofs are decorated with sweeping curves, upturned eaves, and intricate dragon-shaped ornaments symbolizing protection and power.
Inside, you’ll find elaborate wooden carvings, stone columns, and decorative tile work, all crafted with exceptional detail. The temple also features beautiful painted beams, multi-layered altars, and a lotus pond, making it not only a spiritual haven but also an architectural masterpiece.
A Temple That Withstood Time and Turmoil
Longshan Temple has endured nearly three centuries of Taiwan’s history. It has survived earthquakes, typhoons, fires, and even bombing during World War II—yet it continues to stand strong, rebuilt by the local community each time. Its resilience mirrors the strength of the faith it represents.
The temple is a remarkable example of southern Chinese architecture, blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. Ornate dragon pillars, intricately carved wooden beams, and colorful ceramic decorations all tell stories of devotion, resilience, and tradition.
A Sacred Space for All Religions
One of Longshan Temple’s most fascinating aspects is its religious inclusivity. It’s not dedicated to just one god—it houses over a hundred deities from various traditions, including Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), Mazu (Goddess of the Sea), and Wenchang Dijun (God of Literature).
This mix reflects Taiwan’s rich cultural fusion and the way locals seamlessly blend Buddhism, Taoism, and traditional Chinese beliefs in daily life. Whether you’re praying for academic success, health, love, or safe travels, there’s a god or goddess waiting to listen.
A Cultural Experience Beyond Worship
Even if you’re not religious, Longshan Temple offers a vibrant and meaningful cultural experience. You’ll see locals performing ritual offerings, casting moon blocks to seek divine guidance, and lighting incense to express gratitude or ask for blessings.
Photography is allowed (outside the main altar), and the temple’s vivid carvings, peaceful courtyards, and decorative lanterns make for stunning travel photos. It’s a perfect place to observe authentic Taiwanese traditions in a respectful and welcoming environment.
The Bustling Neighborhood Around the Temple
Longshan Temple is at the center of the historic Bangka (艋舺) area, one of Taipei’s oldest neighborhoods. Right outside the temple gates, you’ll find Herb Lane, fortune tellers, traditional markets, and delicious street food vendors lining Guangzhou Street and Huaxi Street Night Market.
A visit to the temple can easily turn into a full afternoon adventure, complete with local snacks like herbal jelly, rice cakes, or stinky tofu. This area gives you a taste of “old Taipei” that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city.
Why You Should Add Longshan Temple to Your Taipei Itinerary
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, spirituality, or culture, Longshan Temple offers something for everyone. It’s easily accessible by MRT, free to enter, and welcomes visitors of all backgrounds with open arms and a sense of calm.
A visit here isn’t just about seeing a building—it’s about experiencing the soul of Taipei, where tradition and modernity co-exist in harmony. For first-time travelers to Taiwan, Longshan Temple is a must-see destination that leaves a lasting impression.
▼ There is a fountain in the Monga Park in front of the Longshan Temple. From 9:00 to 17:00, there is a 15-minute water dance show every hour.
Deities Worshiped at Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple in Taipei is not only a historic landmark but also a spiritual hub that blends Buddhism, Taoism, and traditional Chinese folk beliefs. It houses a wide range of deities, each associated with different aspects of life—such as health, love, academic success, and safety. Below are some of the key deities you can find at the temple:
Guanyin Bodhisattva (Main Deity)
Role: The Goddess of Mercy and Compassion in Buddhism.
Why people pray to her: For peace, protection, healing, and blessings for the family.
Guanyin is the central figure of Longshan Temple. Her shrine is always surrounded by worshippers and offerings of incense, flowers, and fruit.
Mazu (Heavenly Mother)
Role: The Taoist goddess of the sea and protector of sailors and travelers.
Why people pray to her: For safe travels, protection on journeys, and general well-being.
Especially popular among travelers and those living near the coast. You’ll often see fresh offerings and incense at her altar.
Wenchang Dijun (God of Literature)
Role: Patron deity of students, exams, and academic pursuits.
Why people pray to him: For success in studies, passing exams, and career advancement.
You can light incense or offer a “Wenchang Pen” (文昌筆) for good academic fortune.
Yue Lao (The Old Man Under the Moon)
Role: The matchmaker god who ties red threads of fate between destined lovers.
Why people pray to him: For romantic luck, marriage, or to improve relationships.
Visitors can ask for a red thread charm and carry it for good luck in love.
Guan Sheng Dijun (Lord Guan / Guan Gong)
Role: God of war, loyalty, and business integrity.
Why people pray to him: For career success, protection in legal matters, and help in business.
His statue often holds a long saber and symbolizes strength and honor.
Cheng Huang (City God)
Role: Guardian of the local city and ruler of the spiritual realm.
Why people pray to him: For protection, safety, and to ward off negative energy.
Cheng Huang is often depicted in a judge-like pose, symbolizing justice and order.
How to Worship at Longshan Temple
● Start at the main entrance and walk clockwise (right side first, through the Dragon Gate).
● Light incense and pray to the deities that align with your needs (e.g., Guanyin for peace, Yue Lao for love).
● Use “jiaobei” blocks to ask yes/no questions and receive divine guidance.
● Draw a fortune stick (Qian) and match the number to your written fortune.
● Exit respectfully through the Tiger Gate (left side).
Things to Do in Longshan Temple
Visiting Longshan Temple is more than just seeing a historic site — it’s a rich cultural experience that offers insight into Taiwanese spirituality, daily rituals, and community life. Here are the top things to do during your visit:
Observe Traditional Worship Rituals
Longshan Temple is a functioning religious site, not just a tourist attraction. You’ll witness locals performing age-old rituals like lighting incense, bowing before deities, offering food or flowers, and chanting prayers. Visitors are welcome to quietly observe or respectfully participate.
Key Tips:
Watch for people casting red crescent-shaped blocks (called jiaobei) on the ground — it’s a form of divine guidance seeking.
You may also see visitors writing wishes on red slips of paper or presenting offerings like fruit or tea.
Admire the Deities and Shrines
The temple is home to over 100 deities, reflecting Taiwan’s religious diversity. The main hall is dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Other notable gods include Mazu (protector of seafarers), Wenchang Dijun (god of education), and Yue Lao (the matchmaker god for love).
Key Tips:
If you’re a student or job seeker, you can pray to Wenchang Dijun for success.
Couples often visit Yue Lao’s shrine to pray for lasting love or future partners.
Take in the Architecture and Art
Spend time admiring the intricate craftsmanship of Longshan Temple, from its dragon-adorned rooftops to its richly painted beams and lanterns. The courtyard, carved pillars, and reliefs tell visual stories from Chinese folklore and history.
Key Tips:
Photography is allowed in most areas (except during religious ceremonies).
Visit early in the day for softer lighting and fewer crowds if you want clean, atmospheric shots.
Learn About Folk Religion and Symbolism
There’s so much symbolism embedded into every detail of the temple — dragons represent protection, lotuses symbolize purity, and certain deities are responsible for very specific areas of life (love, exams, health, etc.).
Key Tips:
Look for informational plaques or consider joining a local temple tour (some are free or donation-based).
Download a temple guide app or read up on the gods before your visit to better appreciate the meaning behind the altars.
Draw a Fortune Slip (Qian 签)
If you’re curious or spiritually inclined, you can draw a fortune stick from a bamboo tube near the altars. After getting a number, match it with a corresponding written fortune slip available at the temple.
Key Tips:
Fortune slips often include poetic phrases in Chinese — ask a local volunteer or temple staff for help interpreting it.
It’s a fun, traditional experience, especially if you’re visiting with friends or loved ones.
Relax and Reflect in the Temple Grounds
After exploring the inner halls, take a quiet moment by the lotus pond or under the shade of the temple’s covered walkways. The peaceful atmosphere contrasts beautifully with the lively city just outside.
Key Tips:
Sit for a while and watch the rhythm of daily life unfold — it’s a perfect spot to recharge mentally and spiritually.
Bring a journal or book for a quiet moment of reflection.
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: 06:00-22:00
Price
Entrance Fee: Free Admission
The Best Time to Visit
There are morning and evening chanting sessions at 06:00 and 15:45 every day, and there is also group chanting at 08:00 in the morning. This is a great opportunity for you to understand and experience Taiwan’s Buddhist and Taoist culture and local religious life.
Best Time of Day: Morning or Early Evening
Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM):
This is when locals come to pray, and the temple feels most peaceful and spiritual. The soft morning light also makes it ideal for photography.
Early Evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM):
Around sunset, the lanterns are lit and the atmosphere becomes serene yet vibrant. This is a great time to pair your visit with nearby Huaxi Night Market for dinner.
Avoid: Late morning to mid-afternoon (10:30 AM – 3:00 PM), especially on weekends, when tour groups arrive and the temple is busiest.
How to Get to Longshan Temple
By MRT – The Easiest and Most Recommended Way
The Taipei MRT is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Longshan Temple. Take the Blue Line (Bannan Line) and get off at Longshan Temple Station (龍山寺站). Use Exit 1, and you’ll see the temple just steps away—it’s located directly across the street.
- MRT Line: Blue Line (Bannan Line)
- Station: Longshan Temple Station (BL10)
- Exit: Exit 1 → less than 1-minute walk to the temple
By Bus – A Flexible Option for Local Travel
Several city buses stop close to Longshan Temple. Look for the Longshan Temple (龍山寺) bus stop. It’s just a 1–3 minute walk to the temple entrance.
Popular Bus Routes:
- Bus Numbers: 9, 38, 49, 204, 231, 241, 265, 310, 601
- EasyCard accepted for convenience
- Good option if you’re already exploring the Wanhua area
From Ximending – Two Easy Options
Option 1: MRT (Fastest & Most Convenient)
From Ximen Station (西門站), hop on the Blue Line heading toward Yongning / Dingpu. It’s just one stop to Longshan Temple Station. Exit 1 brings you directly to the temple gate.
- Total travel time: ~5 minutes
- MRT ride: ~2 minutes
- Walk from Exit 1: ~2–3 minutes
Option 2: Walk (Scenic Local Experience)
Prefer walking? From central Ximending, walk southwest along Chengdu Road (成都路) or Kangding Road (康定路). The walk takes around 15–20 minutes and takes you through Wanhua, one of Taipei’s oldest neighborhoods.
Things to Do Near Longshan Temple
After experiencing the spiritual calm of Longshan Temple, there’s plenty more to explore in the surrounding Wanhua District, one of Taipei’s oldest and most culturally rich neighborhoods. From night markets to historical streets, here are the top nearby attractions and experiences:
Explore Herb Lane
Just steps from Longshan Temple’s main gate is a narrow alley known as Herb Lane (青草巷), where traditional herbal shops have been selling Chinese medicines for generations. The fragrant mix of dried roots, flowers, and spices is both nostalgic and unique.
Key Highlights:
- Browse herbal teas and natural remedies for common ailments.
- A great place to try Taiwan’s famous herbal jelly or cooling teas.
Visit Bopiliao Historical Block
A 5-minute walk from the temple takes you to Bopiliao, a beautifully preserved area showcasing Qing Dynasty-era architecture, red-brick buildings, and old shop houses. Today, it houses cultural exhibits, art galleries, and interactive history displays.
Key Highlights:
- Walk through 200-year-old streets and learn about Taipei’s past.
- Great for photos, especially at golden hour.
Eat at Huaxi Street Night Market
Located just across the street from Longshan Temple, Huaxi Street Night Market is one of Taipei’s oldest covered night markets. It’s known for its exotic dishes like snake soup, but also offers more familiar Taiwanese street food favorites.
Key Highlights:
- Try local snacks like beef noodle soup, pork rice, or sweet peanut soup.
- Explore traditional massage parlors and herbal medicine shops.
Stop by the Red House Theater
(10–15 min walk or 1 MRT stop away)
If you head slightly north to Ximen, you’ll find the iconic Red House Theater, a cultural landmark and LGBTQ-friendly gathering spot. Built during the Japanese era, it’s now home to indie shops, weekend craft markets, and live performances.
Key Highlights:
- Browse handmade goods and art from local creators.
- Enjoy a coffee or cocktail in one of the nearby creative bars.
Shop for Buddhist Supplies and Lucky Charms
Around Longshan Temple, you’ll find several small shops selling religious items, incense, prayer beads, charms, and temple paper. These make for meaningful souvenirs and are often used by worshippers in local rituals.
Key Highlights:
- Get a charm for good luck, love, or protection.
- Watch craftsmen handcraft incense sticks or bead bracelets.
Bonus: Wander the Old Streets of Bangka
“Bangka” (艋舺) is the old name of this district and still carries the charm of vintage Taipei. Walk through narrow alleyways, spot traditional signage, and discover hidden shrines and local life along the way.
Key Highlights:
- Observe the contrast between historic culture and modern city life.
- Discover lesser-known temples, tea shops, and small eateries.