Longshan Temple
Taiwan
Longshan Temple, located in Taipei's Wanhua District, is a renowned Taiwanese folk temple originally built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian during Qing rule. Dedicated primarily to Guanyin, the temple also honors various Chinese folk deities such as Mazu and Guan Yu, reflecting a blend of Buddhist and folk religious traditions. The temple has been rebuilt multiple times due to damages from earthquakes, fires, and wartime bombings, with the current structure completed in 1924 during Japanese rule. Architecturally, it features traditional Chinese temple elements including a Dragon Gate entrance and a Tiger Gate exit, with multiple halls dedicated to different deities. The temple is culturally significant as a center for worship and community gathering, especially noted for its altar to Yue Lao, the deity of love and matchmaking, attracting many visitors and pilgrims. Rituals at Longshan Temple follow a specific order of prayer across various halls, incorporating offerings, jiaobei (divination blocks), and amulet blessings. The temple is easily accessible by Taipei Metro and remains a vibrant spiritual and tourist site.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere. It is recommended to follow the traditional prayer sequence starting at the front hall and ending at the rear hall, especially if seeking blessings from Yue Lao. Amulets and red threads for love blessings are available, with some provided free of charge. Purchasing tickets is not required as the temple is open to the public, but respectful behavior and adherence to temple etiquette are expected. The temple is easily accessible on foot from Longshan Temple Station of Taipei Metro.
Interesting facts
- •Longshan Temple is dedicated to Guanyin but also houses altars to multiple Chinese folk deities including Mazu, Guan Yu, and Yue Lao, the deity of love.
- •The temple entrance is through the Dragon Gate and exit through the Tiger Gate, and it is considered improper to step over the thresholds.
- •Yue Lao's red threads, believed to bring love and matchmaking blessings, are provided free of charge after favorable jiaobei divination.
- •The temple was damaged by American bombers during World War II because the Japanese military reportedly stored armaments there.
- •Longshan Temple is a spiritual hub for both locals and tourists, especially popular among Thai visitors for its love deity altar.
History
Longshan Temple was originally built in 1738 by Fujian settlers in Taipei as a branch of the ancient Lungshan Temple from Chin-chiang county in Fujian province.
The temple was rebuilt between 1919 and 1924 during Japanese rule after suffering damage from natural disasters and fires.
During World War II, it was partially destroyed in the 1945 Taihoku Air Raid by American bombers due to its use by the Japanese military.
Post-war restoration returned the temple to its former glory, preserving its cultural and religious importance.
Place Guide
Dragon Gate and Tiger Gate1924
The temple's main entrance is the Dragon Gate, symbolizing power and protection, while the exit is the Tiger Gate, representing courage. Visitors are expected not to step over the thresholds as a sign of respect.
Front Hall (Sanguandian)1924
This hall is dedicated to three Buddhist Bodhisattvas: Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin), Manjushri, and Samantabhadra. Visitors begin their prayers here, offering incense and making wishes.
Main Hall1924
The central hall houses the statue of Guanyin, the primary deity of the temple. Visitors pray here and also face back to the front hall to pray to the Jade Emperor in the sky.
Rear Hall1924
This area contains five main structures dedicated to specific Chinese deities: Hua Tuo (medicine), Emperor Wenchang (literature and exams), Tianshang Shengmu, Emperor Guan Di (war and loyalty), and Yue Lao (love and matchmaking).
Central Courtyard
The courtyard features the central incense pot used for self-consecration of amulets. Visitors bless their amulets by passing them clockwise over the incense pot three times.
Contact
Phone: 02 2302 5162