Longshan (or Banka Lungshan) Temple is a Buddhist and Taoist temple located in Taipei’s Wanhua District. It was founded in 1738 by settlers from Fujian and enshrines Guanyin, along with more than 100 other deities.
The nearest MRT station is Longshan Temple Station (Exit 1). The temple is also within walking distance of the Ximending area and Huaxi Street Night Market. I discovered through their official website that they offer free guided tours in both English and Chinese. Some tourist websites also provide similar tours for a small fee, often including a walk around the surrounding district.
The free tours can be booked directly via the temple’s website. Chinese guided tours are available every Tuesday from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, Wednesday from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm, and Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:00 am. I initially booked an English tour scheduled for Tuesday from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. It’s best to complete their Google Form in advance to secure a spot. For any registration enquiries, you can contact Longshan Temple Banqiao Cultural Square at (02) 8252-0103 #517, Monday to Friday, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm.
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the English tour as I was delayed elsewhere. I promptly emailed them to inform them of the situation. Later, I contacted Mr Huang via LINE, who is in charge of the tour office, to rearrange my booking. They were incredibly friendly and helpful, and I managed to join the Chinese tour the following day. The volunteers took great care of us throughout. We met our tour guides, who were dressed in yellow vests, at Jingxin Waterfall.
As it was just after the 15-day Chinese New Year period, the temple was still adorned with festive decorations and lanterns, making the surroundings especially vibrant.
During the tour, the guides explained the temple’s layout, highlighting its intricate woodwork, molded copper pillar with dragon patterns, and colourful roof mosaics.
The main hall was built with a double eave roof, a verandah and 42 pillars, surrounding it. On the walls outside the hall, there are stone engravings of characters by renowned calligraphers. In the hall, the spiral caisson ceiling of totally nail-free. It is supported by the interlocking dougong (wooden brackets).
In addition to Guanyin, the temple also honours Tianshang Shengmu Mazu (the sea goddess), Yue Lao Shenjun (the matchmaker deity), Samantabhadra (Great Virtue Samantabhadra), Wenchang Dijun and many more deities. The explanations were clear and engaging, and visitors can also access an audio guide via the temple’s website.
Samantabhadra (Great Virtue Samantabhadra)
Due to concerns about air pollution in the neighbourhood, visitors are generally not allowed to light joss sticks, except during the first few days of Chinese New Year. However, you will still see many devotees circling their good luck charms above the incense burner as part of their prayers.
Despite visiting late in the evening, the temple was still very busy. It is undoubtedly a wonderful place to experience both cultural heritage and stunning architecture. I would highly recommend a visit if you have the time. They open from 6am to 10pm.
Disclosure: Scanned images from Banka Lungshan Temple: A brief introduction leaflet.
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