Taiwan Temples: A Guide to Etiquette, Symbolism & Architecture
Taiwan's Temples can be overwhelming with so many intricate details and so much to absorb we’ve put together this guide to help you grasp the basics of temple layouts and highlighted the must-visit temples.
We love visiting temples around the world and this was our first experience with Taoist and Confucian religions. The vibrant red colors, the sweeping roofs, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations, the scent of burning incense, the stunning artwork, and the many dragons and deities captured our attention as we admired these magnificent buildings. However, what stood out most was the sense of peace radiating from the devoted worshipers of all ages.
In Taiwan, temples blend Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism under one roof. We had numerous questions and hope this guide will help you understand and appreciate these sacred places before you visit.
Temples and small shrines are found on nearly every street, and we've included our favorites, as well as must-see locations that you shouldn’t miss.
Temple Conduct
Before you enter a temple, please remember to dress appropriately, ensuring your knees and shoulders are covered. While Taiwanese temples don’t have a strict dress code, we believe it’s important to act respectfully as guests in this beautiful country. Nonetheless, we did see locals wearing short clothing.
When visiting a Buddhist temple the conservative dress code will be enforced. Sometimes they will ask you to remove your shoes. Bring an extra pair of socks with you, in case walking barefoot is not for you and you prefer using sandals for your day to day ventures.
Be mindful of your voice, walk quietly, and maintain a considerate demeanor, as many people are praying or seeking blessings.
Please try to avoid standing between a worshiper and the incense brazier.
The Art of Worship: Understand a Temple in Taiwan
Take a moment to appreciate the artwork displayed on the roof, doors, and entrance. Each element of the temple has its own significance, and the layout is often designed with consideration for the landscape, following Feng Shui principles. In Taiwan, temples are frequently painted red, a color that symbolizes good fortune and joy in Chinese culture, while also serving to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. Gold represents wealth, and dragons are believed to protect the temple and its worshipers by driving away evil and bringing good luck. In Taoist beliefs, dragons embody yang (masculine) energy, balancing the yin (feminine) energy represented by phoenixes, thereby fostering harmony in the universe.
When entering, use the right door, which typically features a dragon, and exit through the left door, adorned with a tiger. The middle door is reserved exclusively for the gods and should not be used by worshipers. Temples generally consist of a main hall for worship, flanked by side halls dedicated to other deities.
Once inside, the scent of incense will permeate the rooms. You’ll notice worshipers bowing their heads slightly and waving their incense three times in front of the deity as a sign of respect and reverence. Incense is burned as an offering, believed to carry prayers and wishes upward. You'll also see people entering with various offerings and placing them on the main altar. These offerings can include food, joss paper, flowers, incense, and candles, each carrying its own significance, depending on the deity being honored. The purpose of these offerings is to seek blessings or express gratitude.
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Our Favorite Temples in Taiwan
It was quite challenging for us to narrow it down to just a few, as there are so many incredibly beautiful and mesmerizing temples. Ingrid could spend all day admiring them, but that’s definitely not Sven’s idea of a perfect day. If you’re looking to see just a few, be sure not to miss these:
Confucius Temple, Taipei
Established in 1879 and dedicated to the philosopher Confucius, this temple showcases traditional Chinese architectural elements. You can roam around in the lovely garden and appreciate beautifully crafted pavilions and peaceful courtyards adorned with calligraphy and stone tablets. We think that is an ideal spot to take a deep breath and sit on the courtyard’s benches to relax for a bit.
OPEN | 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
ENTRANCE | Free
WHERE | Maps
Dalongdong Bao’an Temple, Taipei
We were truly impressed and can assure you that it is one of Taipei’s most vibrant and intricately designed temples. You will be amazed by the stunning craftsmanship, with elaborate sculptures, colorful murals, and ornate woodwork that reflect Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
Also called Dalangdong Bao’an, this 18th century—built Taoist temple is dedicated to Baosheng Dadi, the God of Medicine. Additionally, the rear shrine is dedicated to Shennong, the god of agriculture.
OPEN | 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE| free
WHERE | Maps
Longshan Temple, Lukang
This was our favorite temple in the entire country. The complexity and beauty of this temple is rarely seen. We were lucky to have it right at our doorstep, allowing us to appreciate it at different times throughout the day.
Known as the Forbidden City, it has earned a reputation as a treasure of Chinese architectural art. Originally built in the 18th century, the temple is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. What makes it particularly special, beyond its breathtaking beauty, is its minimal renovation, which preserves a sense of originality and history evident in the elaborate decorated doors, intricate wood carvings, beautifully painted murals, and overall architecture. The temple houses four gardens, complete with a small artificial waterfall, fish, and turtles. We enjoyed looking at the turtles for a while.
OPEN | 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE | free
WHERE | Maps
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Confucius Temple, Lukang
What we enjoyed most about this complex was its courtyard. It is lovely and peaceful, encircling the main hall, allowing visitors to appreciate its charm without an entrance fee. Only the main hall requires a fee to enter. Nonetheless, we believe that it is worth paying.
The temple dates back to 1666 and served as the foremost institution for studying Confucianism in Taiwan. Situated in the heart of Tainan’s old city, it holds significant historical value. While its design may seem simple compared to more ornate temples, it possesses a unique magic of its own.
OPEN | 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
ENTRANCE | NT$40
WHERE | Maps
Wenwu Temple, Sun-Moon-Lake
In earlier days it could only be visited by boat. Nowadays it is easily accesible. We decided to bike around the lake to appreciate beautiful scenery of the lake.
Being a newer temple, built in 1969, you will be mesmerized by its grand architecture consisting of different stories, vibrant colors, beautifully blending with the surrounding landscape. Here you will find magnificent shrines dedicated to Confucius, Guan Yu, and Yue Fei.
OPEN | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
ENTRANCE | Free
WHERE | Maps
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