Longshan Temple

Several Taiwanese temples share this name, so don’t be confused if what you see when you arrive doesn’t quite match the guide book. The architecture and decoration of the Longshan Temple in Taipei shows the influence of southern China in Taiwanese architecture with its smiling red roof, round windows and ornate eagle and dragon decorations. First built in 1738 by early Chinese settlers as a place of worship and a community centre, Longshan has been periodically destroyed by fires, earthquakes and bombings but residents keep rebuilding and updating it. Its latest incarnation is southerly facing and built around a large square courtyard with carved dragons protecting each wall and the roof. Traditional poems have been carved into the wood work. Like most of Taiwan’s temples worshipers have an inclusive attitude towards deities, worshipping a selection of gods from Buddhist, Taoist and smaller traditional local religions.

3 / 5 Review by editor World Reviewer Staff

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 Photo by flickr user rataube

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