Longshan Temple is the heart of Wanhua, the oldest part of Taipei, once the river port of Manka. It was founded in 1738 by settlers from Fujian and named after a temple in their home county, and the buildings you see today were largely rebuilt between 1919 and 1924. In 1945 Allied bombing burned out the main hall, yet the statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, survived intact, which only deepened local devotion. The main hall is dedicated to Guanyin, while the rear hall honours Mazu, goddess of the sea, alongside the gods of literature and Lord Guan, the god of war. The roofs are a riot of dragons and phoenixes, and the courtyards are always busy with people praying, making offerings and casting moon blocks to ask questions of the gods.
How it works: entry is free and the temple is open from early morning until late evening. Longshan Temple MRT station on the blue line is a short walk away. Dress modestly, keep your voice low inside the halls and do not step on the raised thresholds of the doorways.
What to expect: this is a working temple, not a museum, so worshippers come first. Watch how people move from altar to altar, light incense and cast pairs of red crescent-shaped moon blocks. Matchmaking is the speciality of the Old Man Under the Moon, and many young visitors come to ask him for love. Festivals and the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month draw the biggest crowds.
Making the most of it: come in the evening, when the temple is lit and the surrounding streets fill with snack stalls, then walk to Bopiliao Historic Block or the Huaxi Street night market nearby.
What to expect
The experience
A free visit to a busy working temple, with courtyards, prayer halls and carved roofs.
Best time
Evening, when the temple is lit, or early morning for chanting.
How long
About an hour.
Tips
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid stepping on door thresholds.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone curious about everyday religion in Taiwan.
- Families
- Colourful and lively; teach kids how moon blocks work.
- Couples
- Ask the Old Man Under the Moon for a blessing on your love life.
- Pair with
- Bopiliao Historic Block and a Wanhua night market.
- Time needed
- An hour.
Good questions
Is Longshan Temple free to visit?+
Yes, entry is free.
When was Longshan Temple founded?+
In 1738; the present buildings were largely rebuilt between 1919 and 1924.
Which gods are worshipped there?+
Guanyin in the main hall, with Mazu, the gods of literature and Lord Guan in the rear hall.
How do I get there?+
Take the blue MRT line to Longshan Temple station, a short walk away.
Can I take photos?+
Yes, discreetly, but avoid photographing worshippers up close while they pray.
