When in Taipei, you have to visit at least one of the temples. You’ll witness some of the most detailed, finely crafted buildings you’ll ever see in your life, gold, red, wooden designs interwoven with candles, incense and soft colours. If I had to have a temple built, I’d have it modeled after the temples in Taipei. Unlike some other …

This lively and well-loved temple on Dihua St was built in 1856 to house the City God statue that the losers in the Wanhua feud took as they fled upstream. Little changed since those days, the temple is a terrific spot to witness folk worship rituals as well as admire some gorgeous pieces of traditional arts and crafts. The temple management deserves …

Founded in 1738 by Han immigrants from Fujian, this temple has served as a municipal, guild and self-defense centre, as well as a house of worship. These days it is one of the city’s top religious sites, and a prime venue for exploring both Taiwan’s vibrant folk faith and its unique temple arts and architecture. Longshan is dedicated to the …

Constructed by the famous Fujian craftsman Wang Yi-shun in the late 1920s, this temple is a beautiful example of Minnan (southern) style architecture and of Taiwan’s delightful local decorative arts. Throughout the temple there are informative displays (in English) on the history of Confucius, the temple and the Six Confucian Arts (such as archery and riding), many of which are …

This 18th-century triple-tiered temple is dedicated to Matsu, the black-faced Chinese goddess of seafarers. It marks the start of the Raohe Street Night Market and is one of Taipei’s busiest and most colourful temples. The rooftop mosaic-like decoration[jiǎnniàn] is particularly vibrant.   Travel Info Ciyou Temple [慈祐宮 / cí yòu gōng] -Main God/Godess:Mazu -Function:People usually pray for peace in their lives and families, …

Until 2010, Taipei 101 was the tallest building in the world. It has since been bumped back to top 5 tallest buildings in the world, but the view is no less spectacular. After visiting Harbin’s Dragon Tower, Tokyo’s Sky Tree and City View (Roppongi Hills), Taipei 101 (Taipei 101 MRT station) far outclasses the other skyscrapers I’ve visited in Asia …