Longshan Temple | Taipei Attraction

Longshan Temple was founded in 1738 and is one of the oldest surviving temples in Taipei. Its principal deity is Guanyin Bodhisattva, and the incense fire has burned vigorously for generations. The three-hall Hokkien layout combined with exquisite stone carving and cut-and-paste mosaic (jian nian) craftsmanship is regarded as a representative work of Taiwanese temple art. The entire complex is listed as a national monument, and a steady stream of worshippers and visitors comes every day.

Highlights of Longshan Temple

From its founding in 1738 by Fujianese settlers from Quanzhou, Longshan Temple has undergone multiple reconstructions and restorations. The surviving structure is based on the 1919–1924 reconstruction and was restored again after being bombed during World War II. The temple is laid out in three halls — front, main, and rear — enshrining Guanyin Bodhisattva and a large number of accompanying deities, with a belief system that crosses Buddhist, Daoist, and folk religious traditions.

The temple's architectural craftsmanship is a highlight: the bronze dragon columns, granite stone carvings, ridge-top mosaic decorations, and painted door gods are all works of skilled artisans. After the lights come on at night, the temple silhouette and rising incense create an atmosphere entirely different from daytime. Guangzhou Street Night Market and the surrounding Monga commercial district form the commercial core of Wanhua's old city.

How to make the most of your visit

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Study the architectural craftsmanshipTake time to look at the dragon columns, stone carvings, and ridge decorations. The techniques vary between halls, and comparing the styles of the front and rear halls is worthwhile.

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Respect religious ceremoniesThe temple is an active place of worship. Keep quiet while visiting and be aware of whether a ceremony is in progress before taking photos.

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Don't miss the evening lightsAfter dark the temple glows with light and drifting incense smoke, creating an atmosphere very different from daytime. Consider visiting after dusk.

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Combine with a walk through the Monga neighborhoodThe area around the temple is Wanhua's old city. A visit to Bopiliao Historic Block nearby can be combined to connect the neighborhood's history from the Qing dynasty through the Japanese colonial period.

Practical information

Getting there and time needed

Take the MRT Bannan Line to Longshan Temple Station; Exit 2 is about a 3-minute walk to the temple gate.
The temple is open year-round and has worshippers morning and evening. Crowds are largest during major festivals such as Guanyin's birthday on the lunar calendar.
Admission is free. Avoiding national holidays in the morning is recommended to minimize crowding.

Nearby connections

Bopiliao Historic Block is about a 5-minute walk away, offering a glimpse of the surviving commercial street from the Qing-era Monga district.
Guangzhou Street and the area around Xichang Street are home to Wanhua's traditional markets and street food — a natural next stop for eating.

Source: Taipei City Cultural Bureau monument records and public historical materials. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.

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