Manka Longshan Temple

The story of Manka Longshan Temple (艋舺龍山寺) can be dated back to two-hundred-and-seventy years ago. This temple was established in 1738 by settlers who migrated from Quanzhou (泉州), China during Qing Dynasty. Even if it has been either fully or partially destroyed by earthquakes, fires and American bombers during World War II, Manka Longshan Temple as a belief center in Taipei is nevertheless consistently rebuilt and renovated by local people and now has become one of Taipei’s most famous and busiest temple.
As a typical temple in Taiwan, it not only worships its main god, Guanshiyin Buddha (觀世音菩薩) in the main hall, but also other hundred of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian deities, such as Guangong (關公), Yuelao (月老), Matsu (媽祖),… etc. in the rear hall and side wings. Especially mentioning is that its architectural design is regarded as an emblematic example mixed traditional southern Chinese siheyuan (four-building courtyard) with a palace style. Furthermore, the doors, walls, roof and poles are exquisitely decorated with figures of dragon, phoenix and other auspicious creatures. For example, the only pair of bronze dragon poles in Taiwan can be found here in the front hall.
Now Manka Longshan Temple is well preserved and has been declared a Secondary National Heritage Site. Together with Taipei 101 (台北101), Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂) and National Palace Museum (國立故宮博物院), it is also listed as one of the top four attractions among foreign visitors to Taipei. Right next to the MRT Longshan Temple Station, it is easily accessible and surely worth your visit in your Taipei trip. By the way, do not miss Huaxi Street (華西街) and Bopiliao Old Street (剝皮寮老街) as you visit this area. All these reminiscent spots in Wanhua District will definitely give you an unforgettable and a deep cultural experience in Taiwan.