Huoshan Biyun Temple

Huoshan Biyun Temple, located in Tainan’s Baihe District, looks much like what you would expect in the Chinese kung fu novels. It is in the mountains, misty and old-fashioned. Like many temples in Taiwan, Huoshan Biyun Temple is a fusion of Buddhist, Taoist and Taiwanese folk culture. But unlike many modern temples, which have been made out of reinforced concrete, you can still see the red bricks, wooden beams and old-fashioned plaques in Huoshan Biyun Temple. There are many colorful statues of gods on the wall behind the main temple, among which the most delicate is undoubtedly the Dragon God. It is said that if visitors drink water from the dragon's mouth, they will be receive blessings and peace upon them.

If you happen to be here around lunchtime, you may be treated to a delicious free vegetarian lunch (donations are encouraged!). After lunch, you might also like to head to the Water & Fire Cave nearby, where the incompatible elements of water and fire emerge simultaneously from a cave. Although it is in a remote location and it is not incredibly majestic, Huoshan Biyun Temple is frequently visited and worshiped. Surrounded by the impressive mountain-view, if you come to the highest point here on a clear day, you can even see Tainan in the distance.