Songshan Ciyou Temple
Northern Taiwan Region
Songshan Ciyou Temple, located in Taipei's Songshan District, is a renowned Taiwanese folk temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Founded in the 18th century, the temple serves as a vital religious and community center, attracting devotees especially during Mazu's birthday celebrations on the 23rd day of the third lunar month. The temple features a six-story square structure with a grand main hall adorned with intricate cochin pottery figures, including phoenixes, dragons, and representations of wealth, happiness, and longevity. Stone lions carved in 1803 guard the entrance, symbolizing protection. The temple houses a pantheon of Taoist and folk deities related to safety, fertility, education, and prosperity, including the City God and Earth God. Its proximity to the popular Raohe Street Night Market makes it an iconic landmark in the area. The original temple was built between 1753 and 1757, destroyed by fire in 1981, and subsequently rebuilt in 1983, preserving its cultural and architectural heritage.
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Astuce: Visit Songshan Ciyou Temple during Mazu's birthday celebrations in the third lunar month to experience vibrant religious processions and cultural festivities. The temple is easily accessible by walking north from Songshan Station via Taiwan Railway or Taipei Metro. It is advisable to check opening hours on the official website and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. While tickets are generally not required, donations and offerings are customary. Nearby Raohe Street Night Market offers excellent opportunities for local food and souvenirs.
Faits intéressants
- •The temple's roof ridge is decorated with figures made from cochin pottery, including phoenixes, historical characters, and twin dragons facing three immortals symbolizing wealth, happiness, and longevity.
- •Stone lions at the temple entrance were carved in 1803; the male lion has an open mouth while the female's mouth is closed, a traditional symbolism in Chinese culture.
- •Songshan Ciyou Temple plays a central role in the annual Mazu birthday celebrations, featuring a ritual procession with a palanquin carrying Mazu's statue, decorated floats, and battle-array troupes.
- •The temple is adjacent to the famous Raohe Street Night Market, making it a cultural and social hub in the Songshan District.
Histoire
According to legend, Songshan Ciyou Temple was founded by a wandering monk who joined Mazu devotees to raise funds over ten years before construction began in 1753.
The temple was completed in 1757.
In 1981, a fire destroyed the original main structure, but it was rebuilt by 1983, maintaining its traditional architectural style.
The stone lions guarding the temple date back to 1803, reflecting the temple's long-standing cultural significance in Taipei.
Guide du lieu
Main Hall1757
The impressive main hall is the focal point of worship within the temple, featuring traditional Taiwanese temple architecture with ornate carvings and decorations honoring Mazu and other deities.
Stone Lions1803
Two stone lions stand guard at the temple entrance, carved in 1803. The male lion is depicted with an open mouth, symbolizing the beginning of life, while the female lion has a closed mouth, symbolizing protection and nurturing.
Roof Ridge Decorations
The roof ridge features elaborate ceramic figures made from cochin pottery, including phoenixes, twin dragons, and three immortals representing wealth, happiness, and longevity, which are significant symbols in Taiwanese folk religion.
Contact
Téléphone: 02 2766 3012
