Religion in Taiwan is rich in diversity and history and is a key part in the lives of many Taiwanese people. Indeed, some say that the Taiwanese don』t just follow religion, but actually 「live」 it, their daily routines and special rites of passages shaped by the will of the gods. Although there are also many Christians in Taiwan, most Taiwanese practice Confucianism, Daoism or Buddhism- and many actually practice them all at the same time! Perhaps this is because Taiwanese temples tend to come in and out of popularity depending on their efficacy. That is, one temple might be the chosen destination for those wanting good exam results, while another might be ideal for those wanting children. Listed here are Taiwan』s top 10 most interesting temples, from those made of sea shells, to those in caves, to those shaped like phalluses. Here you will find something to suit any need, and every curiosity!
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Dajia Mazu Temple – The Most Famous Temple in Taiwan
The sea goddess Mazu is the most well-known deity worshipped in Taiwan, and her temples are always a hub of activity and noise. Originally built in 1770, Taichung』s Dajia Mazu Temple is no exception. Famous for the annual 「Mazu Marching」, when a more than one million person strong parade sets out from Dajia for a 300 kilometer journey on foot, blessing all those they encounter on the way, its reputation is to be marvelled at. This temple is also famous for the great street food that surrounds it, especially famous crispy butter cake (奶油酥餅).
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Nankunshen Temple – The Most Beautiful Temple in Taiwan
Nankunshen Temple』s more than 300 year old history gives it a special atmosphere and authenticity that may no longer be present in some of Taiwan』s other temples. Its large area, the design of its architecture, and the more than 10 million visitors per year that pass through it all contribute to a feeling of grandness and liveliness. Although the temple here officially worships just five royal lords, come here to experience many more aspects of Taiwanese traditional folk customs. We think this is one of Taiwan』s most beautiful temples.
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Foguangshan – City of Buddhas
Kaohsiung』s Foguangshan has a reputation as the most prestigious shrine in Taiwan. Aside from the beauty of the main temple, the city surrounded by 480 small golden painted Buddhas gives the area a solemn atmosphere. But even on a normal day, the Buddhist relics in the exhibition hall are well worth a visit. Great vegetarian food served by a 5-star hotel chef, as well as plenty of souvenirs, make this a satisfying place to visit!
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Nanrenshi – Shrine to the Phallus
This temple is not for the easily embarrassed. An 18 meter tall rock covered with thickets that resembles male genitalia has been turned into a temple, complete with nine huge stone-carved phalli to accompany it. Most who visit this temple are looking for marriage or children. Others may be looking for wealth or good health. Come with a request – or just for a glimpse of the famous erect phallus!
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Dingshan Shell Temple – Sea Palace
Located in the hills close to Sanzhi on the North Coast of Taiwan, this tiny temple is made entirely of sea shells and coral. It took two years to painstakingly build the sea-palace, in which Buddhist gods line the walls, blessing visitors as they pass through. Join the many believers and visitors here to marvel at this natural – and supernatural – wonder.
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Lotus Pond – Lake of Temples
Lotus Pond is not just famous for its sunset views and beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains. The twenty temples worshipping different deities situated around the lake also draw many visitors. The most famous four temples are also the most visually striking. Situated inside the belly of the huge beasts, the Dragon & Tiger Towers are memorable places to pray. The nearby Pavilion of the North Pole and Confucius Temple are also popular destinations for locals and visitors alike.
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Bishan Temple – The Best View in Taipei
Known among locals as the best place for a night view of Taiwan』s capital, Bishan Temple is a great location for a stroll at sunset. Its convenient location in Taipei』s Neihu district makes it a popular destination, especially for those wishing to catch a glimpse of the distant Taipei 101 emerging out of a sea of lights in the distance. At this temple, one feels as though they are not just worshipping the gods, but the beauty of Taipei too.
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Keelung Fairy Cave – Cave of Spirits
Sitting beside Keelung Harbor, the Keelung Fairy Cave is a tiny little temple situated inside a cave. The size of the cave means one is constantly in danger of collision with other visitors. Indeed, while reading the many poems and messages left by poets and visitors, one must be patient. The statue of Avalokiteśvara (觀世音菩薩) is an attraction for many visitors, although those of a bigger build may struggle to squeeze through the narrow gap to see it.
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Eternal Spring Shrine – Sacred Nature
There are not many places where time stops in busy Taiwan! But Eternal Spring Shrine is definitely one of them. Built to commemorate the veterans who died building a nearby road, it is set among mountains and the ever-flowing Changchun waterfall. Wander along the Stairway to the Sky walking trail behind the shrine, and feel yourself merge with the Taroko landscape. These are memories at their most everlasting.
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Wuji Tianyuan Temple – Little Japan
You would be forgiven for mistaking Tamsui』s Taoist Wuji Tianyuan Temple as being in Japan. But the Yoshino cherry blossoms that flower here in mid-March are renowned around Taiwan too. Here, you will see newlyweds taking pre-wedding photos, girls in kimono accompanied by photographers, and lots of skilled selfie takers! Aside from being a Taoist temple, this place is something of an ode to Taiwan』s much-loved cherry blossom, and an absolute hot-spot for anyone who loves photography.
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