41415730https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=F8717E94C074C81CThe Auspicious Dragon: A New Attraction at Maokong Gondola's Zhinan Temple StationAs you ride the Maokong Gondola (貓空纜車) up the hillside ab<img style="FLOAT: left" alt="Zodiac-animal sculptures are scattered along the pathway winding through the Twelve Animals of the Chinese Zodiac Educational Garden./The Water Curtain Cave Falls, to the right of the imperial-style Greeting the Celestials Pavilion." title="Zodiac-animal sculptures are scattered along the pathway winding through the Twelve Animals of the Chinese Zodiac Educational Garden./The Water Curtain Cave Falls, to the right of the imperial-style Greeting the Celestials Pavilion." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Zhinan%20Temple_1.jpg" width="259" height="333"/>ove Muzha (木柵), the troubles of the everyday world seem to slip away, to be replaced by a feeling of calm. Halfway up the line is Zhinan Temple Station (指南宮站), leading to nearby Zhinan Temple, a well-known attraction where visitors are immersed in both lush mountain scenery and authentic local religious culture. In addition to its magnificent halls, beside the temple is a wonderful park area which now sports a new and novel landmark attraction called the “Auspicious Dragon” (祥龍獻瑞). Finished in June, it has been an instant hit with visitors.Walk out of the gondola station and you’ll come across the ancient-style “Greeting the Celestials Pavilion” (迎仙亭). This elegant, colorful Chinese classical-style octagonal pavilion has interior images of the Eight Immortals (八仙). Walk inside to see the “Water Curtain Cave Falls” (水濂洞瀑布) on the right – an unexpected sight in such a place. In front is a titanium-plated stainless steel sculpture of a golden-hued, five-talon dragon standing in the middle of a pool – the Auspicious Dragon itself.<IMG style="FLOAT: right" alt="A Maokong Gondola ride up to Zhinan Temple Station immerses you in the verdant scenery of the Zhinan Temple park area and its mountain backdrop./The Sky Dragon in the Fairy Mountain, named for the dense local nanmu-tree foliage." title="A Maokong Gondola ride up to Zhinan Temple Station immerses you in the verdant scenery of the Zhinan Temple park area and its mountain backdrop./The Sky Dragon in the Fairy Mountain, named for the dense local nanmu-tree foliage." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Zhinan%20Temple_2.jpg" width="259" height="329"/>The sculpture was created as a joint undertaking by Zhinan Temple and the Geotechnical Engineering Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government. Completed in a year by a team of specialist craftsmen, the dragon has 3,600 scales. In its right claw it carries the dragon pearl, in its left the ruler’s seal. Gao Zhongxin (高忠信), the temple’s chairman, says that according to legend, high in the heavens this five-clawed dragon is the steed of the Jade Emperor (玉皇大帝), and has long been revered as a deity that can bring rain and drive out evil spirits. It is a symbol of nobility and honor, as well as of luck and success. When the five-talon dragon ejects a fountain of water from its mouth, along with spray shot from devices fitted around the pool, it has the appearance of traversing the clouds. In the sunlight, it shines with a striking golden radiance, bedazzling the eye.In addition to enjoying the dragon, which almost seems alive, the city’s Geotechnical Engineering Office has created a variety of scenic spots for visitors to enjoy. One is called “The Sky Dragon in the Fairy Mountain” (仙山靝龍), named after the lush and vigorous year-round growth of nanmu trees found here. It is said that by walking through the trees visitors absorb heavenly energy. Beside the “Greeting the Immortals Pavilion” (迎仙亭) is the entrance to the “Twelve Animals of the Chinese Zodiac Educational Garden” (十二生肖教育園區). Visitors are first greeted by a stone sculpture of the mouse, and the remaining eleven animals lie interspersed along the length of the path through the park, like hidden treasure awaiting the visitor’s discovery. Information boards beside the sculptures give an explanation of each animal’s symbolism. During a 30-minute visit here, visitors can expect constant pleasant surprises, and will leave brimming with new knowledge.<IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="The Auspicious Dragon" title="The Auspicious Dragon" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Zhinan%20Temple_3.jpg" width="440" height="282"/>A special “Maokong Gondola Super Value Round-Trip Ticket” (貓空纜車來回超值票) is now on sale for NT$120, good for one round trip between Taipei Zoo Station (動物園站) and Maokong Station (貓空站), with one free stop at Zhinan Temple Station en route, for the chance to explore the temple’s beautiful park. You can also apply for an NT$20 refund at any station along the line within three days of using your ticket.Head out with family and friends on one of Taipei’s balmy autumn weekends for a ride on the Maokong Gondola and enjoy a pleasant time exploring the area around Zhinan Temple Station, absorbing some of the good fortune emanating from the noble five-talon golden dragon and savoring the allure of Taiwan’s religious culture.<TABLE width="357" border="0"><TBODY><TR><TH width="351" scope="col">Information</TH></TR><TR><TD>Zhinan Temple 指南宮 Add: 115, Wanshou Rd. (萬壽路115號) Tel: (02)2939-9920 Maokong Gondola Maokong Station’s Visitor Center (纜車貓空站遊客中心): (02)2937-8563 Taipei Metro 24-Hour Customer Service Hotline: (02)218-12345 Transportation: Take Maokong Gondola (貓空纜車) to Zhinan Temple Station (指南宮站), or take Maokong Itinerant Bus, Left Line (貓空遊園公車左線), or Small No. 10 (小10) bus.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>[][][][]Taipei City Government41415720https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=499585A1AA0D5EA2An Inspired Work of Heritage Architecture--Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery<img width="360" height="259" style="FLOAT: right" alt="The Water-Moon Dharma Center" title="The Water-Moon Dharma Center" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Nang Chun_2.jpg" />The Water-Moon Dharma Center (水月道場) at the Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery (法鼓山農禪寺) in Beitou was built in the modern minimalist architectural style. It’s a popular place with tourists, featuring an attractive, mirrorlike pool in front of the grand hall, reflecting clouds, sky, and the pavilion behind.The new center, opened at the end of 2012, was built in the spirit of a six-word concept laid down by the founder of Dharma Drum Mountain, Master Sheng Yen (聖嚴法師), which states that the facility would be like a “flower in sky, moon in water” (空中花，水中月). Architect Kris Yao (姚仁喜) designed and built the complex, using reflected light and shadow to present the structure in textured layers of brightness and shade.The center’s Main Buddha Hall (大殿) does indeed seem like a pavilion in the sky. The multi-function facility houses the Chan Hall (禪堂) and Dining Hall (齋堂) plus a kitchen, office, reception area, and classroom. Built in an “L” shape, with walls of gray fair-faced concrete, it has a solemn and stately appearance. The wall at the rear of the Main Buddha Hall has the full Diamond Sutra engraved on it. The interior west wall, which has a hollowed-out lattice design, is engraved with the text of the Heart Sutra. When the sun sets the shapes of the words flood the hall in the form of natural light, creating a deeply religious aura that is quite moving.<img width="380" height="233" style="FLOAT: left" alt="Inside Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery" title="Inside Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Nang Chun_3.jpg" />Behind the Water-Moon Dharma Center’s main hall is a small, simple house with exterior walls of gray washed stone and terrazzo flooring inside – a typical example of a countryside farmer’s home built in 1970s Taiwan. Called the Original Farmhouse (開山農舍), the two-story building was constructed by Master Sheng Yen’s teacher, Master Dong Chu (東初老人), and a group of disciples. The oldest building at Nung Chan Monastery, it is surrounded by vegetable gardens and a bamboo grove. Master Dong Chu established the site in the tradition of the “jungle system” (叢林制度) developed by ancient Zen Master Bai Zhang (百丈禪師), centered around a life of subsistence farming and meditation. Master Sheng Yen took over after Master Dong Chu passed away at the end of 1977, overseeing the Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture (中華佛教文化館) and Nung Chan Monastery.Master Sheng Yen had spent time in the United States, and brought his work translating Buddhist scripture to Nung Chan Monastery after returning to Taiwan. The Institute for the Translation of Chinese Tripitaka (譯經院) was established in 1978. At that time the Farmhouse was used both as the translation center and for the seven-day meditation retreats (禪七), in which masters gave guidance to young trainees. It is now used as a display space, with the decor returned to its original appearance, giving Dharma Center visitors a glimpse into the site’s origins.<TABLE style=" FLOAT: right"><TBODY><TR><TD bgcolor="#eeeeee">Information</TD></TR><TR><TD height="154">Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery 法鼓山農禪寺 Add: 89, Ln. 65, Daye Rd. (大業路65巷89號) Tel: (02)2893-3161 Hours: 09:00~16:00 Website: ncm.ddm.org.tw (Chinese) </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Another highlight is The Way to Compassion (入慈悲門), featuring green columns and green glazed roof tiles. In the past this was the main gate of the Nung Chan Monastery. Today situated in a courtyard behind the newly built Main Buddha Hall, it is separated from the Original Farmhouse by new architecture. The two prime witnesses to the monastery’s 40 years of growth and development were listed as Taipei historical buildings in 2004.The Water-Moon Dharma Center looks very much like an art gallery from the outside, and the view of Mt. Datun (大屯山) in the distance nicely complements the waterscape created at the site. Offering both harmonious scenery and a Zen meditation experience, this has become a popular destination for foreign practitioners.<img width="478" height="259" style="FLOAT: left" alt="The Water-Moon Dharma Center" title="The Water-Moon Dharma Center" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Nang Chun_1.jpg" />[][][][]Taipei City Government41415710https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=5DFEE9BFE28863BDThe Beauty of Taipei's TemplesBangka’s Vene<img width="435" height="196" style="FLOAT: left" alt="The beauty of Taipei's temples" title="The beauty of Taipei's temples" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_1.jpg" />rable Temples, Symbol of the City’s Origins The original Taiwanese name of the area known today in Mandarin as Wanhua (萬華) is Bangka. This is present-day Taipei’s original place of settlement. During the Qing dynasty immigrants from China settled here, transplanting religious beliefs and icons from their home areas. Many district temples are thus centuries old, and the queen of the cluster is Manka Lungshan Temple, today still a vibrant place of worship, and a well-known international tourist attraction.Manka Qingshan Temple (艋舺青山宮), established in 1856, is another temple in Wanhua with a pedigree that puts it in a similar league. It is said that in 1854 a plague broke out in what was then called Bangka, and local fishermen who had emigrated from China’s Huian (惠安) area in Fujian province (福建省) went home and then brought back to Taiwan an icon from the Quanzhou Qingshan Temple (泉州青山宮). Local plague sufferers who prayed to the King of Qingshan (青山王) were returned to health and peace. The original Qingshan Temple was built on today’s Xiyuan Road (西園路), but an ever increasing number of worshipers led to a decision to rebuild the temple on today’s Guiyang Street (貴陽街); the present temple was completed in 1859. With a facade just off the busy street in front, it is laid out in the form of a street house. The vivid, awe-inspiring door gods are in traditional Huianxi style, and the stone lions in front were carved from granite and bluestone in 1938, during the Japanese era, in classic, meticulous Japanese style.<img width="383" height="207" style="FLOAT: right" alt="Songshan Ciyou Temple’s main hall has a traditional triple eave roof; inside are many historical relics, including numerouscentury-old horizontal inscription boards." title="Songshan Ciyou Temple’s main hall has a traditional triple eave roof; inside are many historical relics, including numerouscentury-old horizontal inscription boards." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_2.jpg" />The large-scale King of Qingshan Festival (青山王祭) is held each year from the 20th to 23rd day of the 10th lunar month, and is commonly called “Great Bangka Sacrificial Ceremony” (艋舺大拜拜). It is one of Taipei’s three biggest annual temple fairs, and is a key annual event for the local community. During this year’s four-day celebration, there will be a King of Qingshan night-inspection procession on each of the first two nights, one through southern and one through northern Wanhua. The procession is customarily called an anfang (暗訪) or “night visit.” On the third day is the festival’s main event, the “Greeting the King of Qingshan” (迎青山王) raojing (遶境) or “tour of inspection,” with zhentou (陣頭) or “battle-array” performance troupes from all Wanhua temples, large and small, participating. The entire Wanhua district is filled with believers, and there is great noise and commotion. On the 4th day, the King of Qingshan’s birthday, anniversary rites and celebrations of colorful grandeur are staged. Recognizing the temple’s historical and cultural importance, the Ministry of the Interior (內政部) declared it a Historical Relic of the Third Rank in 1985, and in 2010 the Bureau of Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Culture (文化部文化資產局), placed the anfang and raojing on the country’s list of Folk Customs and Related Cultural Artifacts of official cultural heritage.<img width="298" height="202" style="FLOAT: left" alt="Located high in the hills, Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple has great views over the Taipei Basin; starting out as a small, simple structure, today’s temple is grandiose, and has become a favorite weekend sightseeing spot with Taipei folk." title="Located high in the hills, Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple has great views over the Taipei Basin; starting out as a small, simple structure, today’s temple is grandiose, and has become a favorite weekend sightseeing spot with Taipei folk." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_3.jpg" />Another Wanhua temple tucked away within busy Xichang Street Night Market (西昌街夜市) is the Manka Dizang Temple (艋舺地藏庵). Built in 1760, it has recently undergone a full renovation. Though small, it has many distinctive architectural elements, such as a Qing dynasty-style single-hall layout and simple, austere carvings. Its most visually compelling element is the decorative lanterns hung from its crossbeams, and at either end of the beams are colorful, painted stories, something not often seen in temple decoration. Beside this temple is another, independent one, Zhaoxian Temple (昭顯廟), which is customarily called Dazhong Temple (大眾廟), where souls with no one to worship them are honored. Most are the souls of immigrants who came to Taiwan alone in its pioneer days to open land, but died before creating a family.Busy, Flourishing Songshan and Xinyi TemplesThe densely populated Songshan and Xinyi districts also have their own fair share of well-known temples. A prime example is Songshan Ciyou Temple (松山慈祐宮), near Raohe Street Night Market. Built in 1753, the main hall has a triple-eave roof, atop which are many auspicious figurines, such as dragons, phoenixes, and figures from historical tales, crafted using the cut-and-paste (剪黏) and cochin pottery methods. Though the temple has undergone repair and rebuilding on numerous occasions through the years, many heritage artifacts possessing historical and cultural significance have been preserved, notably a pair of carvings on either side of the central door crafted in the early 18th century, lifelike stone lions, and a carved stone censer over 200 years old.The main deity enshrined within Songshan Ciyou Temple is Mazu, guardian goddess of the sea. Each year on her birthday (on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month), as well as on the anniversary of the temple’s establishment, believers in great number come to expresses their good wishes and to celebrate. Last year participants from 52 temples around Taiwan took part in the prayer rites and processions for the temple’s 260th anniversary celebrations, and over 200 decorated floats and many battle-array troupes added to the magnificent scenes.<img width="337" height="219" style="FLOAT: right" alt="Busy, splendid Songshan Feng-Tian Temple has myriad dragons, phoenixes, and folktale scenes carved on stone columns and wooden beams." title="Busy, splendid Songshan Feng-Tian Temple has myriad dragons, phoenixes, and folktale scenes carved on stone columns and wooden beams." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_4.jpg" />At the foot of Taipei’s Sishoushan (“Four Beasts Mountain”; 四獸山), known for its popular network of hiking trails, is Songshan Cihui Temple (松山慈惠堂). Positioned at a key trailhead, it is built to resemble a mountain, with a complex of buildings staggered over five levels. Drum and bell towers are on the left and right, and the overall effect is one of majesty. The halls are designed in traditional Chinese temple architectural style, with Ming and Qing dynasty palace-art flourishes. The visual canvas of red brick, yellow roof tiles, and green mountain forest is arresting, and an impressive cityscape panorama can be seen from the main hall’s second-floor balcony, with buildings sprouting like the trees of the forest. This temple is a must-visit spot for Sishoushan hikers.The main deity enshrined in this temple is the Golden Mother of the Jade Pool (瑤池金母), the highest goddess in the Daoist pantheon, responsible in heaven for fêting the other gods, and in the mortal world for matters pertaining to marriage and to bearing and raising children. Her likeness, nearly four meters high, has a solemn and dignified bearing. Special activities are regularly staged in the large plaza in front, and each year in the week before Mother’s Day (May 2nd to 4th in the Western calendar) “Protect the People Procession Festival” (保民遶境嘉年華) and “Maternal Love Evening Music Concert” (弘揚母愛音樂晚會) activities are held – demonstrations of the Golden Mother’s closeness to citizens and her close association with the spirit of maternal love.Also located at the foot of Sishoushan is Songshan Feng-Tian Temple (松山奉天宮), where the Jade Emperor (玉皇上帝), who sits atop the Chinese pantheon, is worshipped. His birthday is on the 9th day of the 1st lunar month, and worshipers stream in from near and far, creating a grand spectacle. The temple’s architecture is in the classic south China style, with a grandiose monumental archway, landscaped courtyard, a “ninedragon wall” (九龍壁) relief carving, and countless carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and scenes from famous folktales on stone columns and wooden beams. The unusually tall principal columns in the main hall soar more than 20 meters high. Two other special elements among the many to be enjoyed on a visit are a censer cast from the type of nickel and copper normally used in coins, and a golden Eight Trigrams (八卦) pattern on the roof. Note that until February 14th you can also take in the National Palace Museum’s digital-collection New Waves of NPM Songshan Feng-Tian Temple Travelling Exhibition (故宮潮．松山奉天宮遊), Taiwan’s first ever exhibition jointly curated by a temple and national-level museum.<img width="310" height="384" style="FLOAT: left" alt="Zhinan Temple, built in a mountain setting, is one of Taiwan’s most sacred Daoist sites. The central portion is large, with pavilions, terraces, and corridors connecting the halls. Throughout are dragon columns of varying countenance." title="Zhinan Temple, built in a mountain setting, is one of Taiwan’s most sacred Daoist sites. The central portion is large, with pavilions, terraces, and corridors connecting the halls. Throughout are dragon columns of varying countenance." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_5.jpg" />Temples in Glorious Hillside SettingsTaipei is surrounded by green mountains on its outskirts, and you’ll find many temples built on the forested slopes, many commanding superb views over Taipei Basin from their viewing platforms. They’re grand spots to visit when walking in the hills. Zhinan Temple (指南宮), in the hills of Wenshan District, was built in 1890. Spread over 70-plus hectares, it is dedicated to Lu Dongbin (呂洞賓), one of Daoism’s Eight Immortals (八仙). Legend has it that Lu has the Midas touch, using it to change stone to gold to assist the poor, and thus was revered by Muzha-area mining folk. There are four grand halls in the complex; Confucius and his disciples are worshiped in Dacheng Hall (大成殿). A special attraction of this temple is that although it is one of Taiwan’s most sacred Daoist sites, over the years it has become a mixed Daoist/Buddhist/Confucian place of worship. It is perhaps the most important religious site in Zhinan.Bluestone, with its solid, heavy, stately appearance, has been used liberally throughout Zhinan Temple, complementing the many dragon different columns.A portion of the temple is covered with sturdy copper tiling, giving it an uncommonly elegant bearing. A series of interconnected pavilions and corridors also graces the complex, and the grounds contain over a thousand osmanthus and cherry trees. When in bloom the fragrance of their flowers floats through the air, creating the ambiance of a mountain-garden.Stately Jinlong Temple (金龍禪寺), built in 1940, is located in Neihu District, beside the Zhongyongshan Trail (忠勇山步道). In his youth, the founder studied in Japan, and brought back a taste for the Japanese Buddhist temple architectural style, reflected in features such as the Japanese Buddhist ornamental figurines on the roof. The ornately decorated interior has a unique elegance. Gilded Sakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, and Calamity-Averting Medicine Buddha icons are enshrined in the main hall, and there is a giant white statue of Guanyin (觀音) almost three stories tall – the temple’s main attraction. To one side is a 20-foot-high Wall of Buddhist Scriptures (心經牆), and scattered in the woods along an adjoining pathway are the 18 Arhats. The craftsmanship of the arhats is particularly exquisite, each impressively lifelike.Stately Jinlong Temple (金龍禪寺), built in 1940, is located in Neihu District, beside the Zhongyongshan Trail (忠勇山步道). In his youth, the founder studied in Japan, and brought back a taste for the Japanese Buddhist temple architectural style, reflected in features such as the Japanese Buddhist ornamental figurines on the roof. The ornately decorated interior has a unique elegance. Gilded Sakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, and Calamity-Averting Medicine Buddha icons are enshrined in the main hall, and there is a giant white statue of Guanyin (觀音) almost three stories tall – the temple’s main attraction. To one side is a 20-foot-high Wall of Buddhist Scriptures (心經牆), and scattered in the woods along an adjoining pathway are the 18 Arhats. The craftsmanship of the arhats is particularly exquisite, each impressively lifelike.According to local folklore, the gate of heaven is opened (開天門) on the 7th day of the 6th lunar month, and the Jade Emperor leads fellow gods down to the mortal world to attend to people’s sufferings. Believers can take the opportunity to ask the Jade Emperor for “extended life and replenished fortune” (延壽補運). On this date Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple stages the “Gate of Heaven Opening” Extension of Life Ceremony, attracting devotees from near and far.<img width="386" height="234" style="FLOAT: right" alt="Located high in the hills, Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple has great views over the Taipei Basin; starting out as a small, simple structure, today’s temple is grandiose, and has become a favorite weekend sightseeing spot with Taipei folk" title="Located high in the hills, Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple has great views over the Taipei Basin; starting out as a small, simple structure, today’s temple is grandiose, and has become a favorite weekend sightseeing spot with Taipei folk" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Beaty of Temples_6.jpg" />Many of Taiwan’s venerable temples are not only places of spiritual sustenance for local people, but are also places of great architectural beauty and cultural character. They thus serve as centers of local activity, and precious cultural assets that you should be sure to visit when in Taiwan.<table width="641" border="0"> <tr> <th colspan="2" scope="col">Information</th> </tr> <tr> <td width="300">Manka Qingshan Temple 艋舺青山宮 Add: 218, Sec. 2, Guiyang St. (貴陽街2段218號) Tel: (02)2382-2296</td> <td width="331">Songshan Feng-Tian Temple 松山奉天宮 Add: 12, Ln. 221, Fude St. (福德街221巷12號) Tel: (02)2727-9765</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Manka Dizang Temple 艋舺地藏庵 Add: 245, Xichang St. (西昌街245號) Tel: (02)2306-6352</td> <td>Zhinan Temple 指南宮 Add: 115, Wanshou Rd. (萬壽路115號) Tel: (02)2939-9922</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Songshan Ciyou Temple 松山慈祐宮 Add: 761, Sec. 4, Bade Rd. (八德路4段761號) Tel: (02)2765-9017</td> <td>Jinlong Temple 金龍禪寺 Add: 2, Ln. 256, Sec. 3, Neihu Rd. (內湖路3段256巷2號) Tel: (02)2790-2604</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Songshan Cihui Temple 松山慈惠堂 Add: 33, Ln. 251, Fude St. (福德街251巷33號) Tel: (02)2726-1735</td> <td>Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple 碧山巖開漳聖王廟 Add: 24, Bishan Rd. (碧山路24號) Tel: (02)2790-0657</td> </tr></table> [][][][]Taipei City Government41415700https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=0EFC28360DC323BEThe Religious Center of Sikou - Songshan Cihyou Temple<img src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/Songshan%20Cihyou%20Temple.jpg" alt="Songshan Cihyou Temple" title="Songshan Cihyou Temple" width="450" height="339" style="FLOAT: left" mmoid="9425094"/>Add: No. 761, Sec. 4, Bade Rd., Taipei City Songshan Cihyou Temple, also named “Songshan Matsu Temple,” was established in 1753 for people to worship its main goddess, “Black-faced Matsu.” According to history, a monk called Heng Chen (also named Lin Shou-I), of Cyuanjhou, Fujian, traveled around with a statue of Matsu from Meijhou to enlighten earthlings. In the last years of Yungcheng, he came to Taiwan to collect pious alms along the way. In the second year of Chienlung, he arrived in Sikou, where most of the residents had also come from Cyuanjhou, and their ancestors worshiped Matsu as well. Therefore, they raised funds to build this temple in which the locals placed their belief and also held activities. Although the temple has been renovated and reconstructed many times over the years, some original antiquities are still preserved in this magnificent, ancient architecture. Source: Songshan District Office [][][][]Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government41415690https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=101333D848BD0EBCA Grand Tour of Beloved and Blessed Local Church ArchitectureChristmas is a key cultural event in the West. Excitement grows as the year draws to a close in Taipei too, and churches around the city are busy prettying up their exteriors as they prepare for Masses and othercelebrations that bring a sense of peace, happiness, and benediction. As you travel over the next few pages, we'll be giving you a good sense of the warmth and joyous spirit that settles over the city during the festive season, and we'll take you on a grand tour of the best in local church architecture. We'll visit the Grace Baptist Church, Taipei Truth Lutheran Church, Holy Family Catholic Church,Zhongshan Presbyterian Church, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and other locations, all possessing great spiritual and physical beauty.<H4>Deep Plowing of the Local Soil –Grace Baptist Church</H4><TABLE style=" FLOAT: left" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="0"><TBODY><TR><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="1. Grace Baptist Church exhibits many classical Chinese architectural motifs, one of the most recognized landmarks in south Taipei." title="1. Grace Baptist Church exhibits many classical Chinese architectural motifs, one of the most recognized landmarks in south Taipei." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_01.jpg" width="200"/></TD></TR><TR><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="2. The high-ceilinged assembly hall at Grace Baptist Church, with its raised altar and large wooden cross on the wall behind, has an air of solemn majesty." title="2. The high-ceilinged assembly hall at Grace Baptist Church, with its raised altar and large wooden cross on the wall behind, has an air of solemn majesty." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_02.jpg" width="200"/></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Because of the presence of so many churches along its length, including Grace Baptist Church, Taipei Truth Lutheran Church, and Holy Family Catholic Church— plus the grand Taipei Grand Mosque—Xinsheng S. Rd. has been given the popular local moniker “The Road of Heaven.” The first Grace Baptist Church was erected in 1951, a little building set in the backyard of a private residence along Heping E. Rd. In 1955, the growing congregation moved their home of worship to the present location, rebuilding in 1984, and in 2003 engaging in renovations, the result today's imposing complex.The exterior of Grace Baptist Church is an exhibition of traditional Chinese design concepts, exhibiting many a Christian religious motif adapted “with local characteristics.” An immense cross stands high up a majestically tall and soaring spire, symbolizing the deep roots planted in rich Taiwan soil. The roof is in the shade of yellow traditionally reserved for the Chinese emperor, symbolizing instead that Jesus Christ Our Lord reigns supreme. Green ruyi , an auspicious Chinese symbol that translates literally as “all in accordance with one's wishes”—are placed on either side of the roof, symbolizing that all here is “in accordance with” the “wishes” of God. The exterior of the church is of red brick in the same shade as the brick traditionally used in local residences, symbolizing the deep roots and local spiritual consciousness this church cultivates. The fan-shaped doorways , a traditional design motif, symbolize peace and gentleness, and blend melodically in contrast with the yellow roof. This model of architecture, Grace Baptist Church, has for obvious reason long been an iconic landmark in Taipei south district.<H4>Holistic Spiritual Care in a Modern Space –Taipei Truth Lutheran Church</H4>Located by Grace Baptist Church, Taipei Truth Lutheran Church was erected in 1952. Fronted by the heavy and often noisy flow of people and vehicles along busy Xinsheng S. Rd., in 2005, this oasis of calm and tranquility underwent a thoroughgoing renovation, re-emerging as a lofty 10-story structure in sleek modern styling. The bright exterior is characterized by smooth, flowing lines, emitting a warm, welcoming light that embraces all who approach.<TABLE style=" FLOAT: left" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="0"><TBODY><TR><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="3. Taipei Truth Lutheran Church has clean, trim lines on its modernistic exterior, exuding a heart open to all comers." title="3. Taipei Truth Lutheran Church has clean, trim lines on its modernistic exterior, exuding a heart open to all comers." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_03.jpg" width="200"/></TD></TR><TR><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="4. The arched, recessed ceiling at Taipei Truth Lutheran Church creates a heightened sense of roomy space and brightness." title="4. The arched, recessed ceiling at Taipei Truth Lutheran Church creates a heightened sense of roomy space and brightness." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_04.jpg" width="200"/></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>This structure has been designed with the theme of service as a “building of holistic care.” It features modernistic architectural-design elements that give it a refined, contemplative inward-looking demeanor, replete with the sublime symbolism of a new generation of the church. There is clever use of a huge cross as a lighting source, and this, along with the curvilinear roof and group of seven curtain design embellishments, blend in harmony under the lighting emanating from the church's pinnacle, the place suffused with a soft and gentle glow. On the doors to the assembly hall of the church, transparent glass is used, and the transparent stairway, allowing for the visual interaction of those in the assembly hall and people walking along. And in order to make manifest the selflesslove of the Savior, great care has been taken in thedesign to create an open concept without restricting walls, with freedom of movement for those moving about and an expansive 40-ping (one ping equals 36sq. ft.) landscaped area of pleasing, comforting visuals. This public space of natural and intimate appeal fully displays the aesthetic grandeur of the site and embodies the “fellowship of love” emphasized by the church and the devotion to an inclusive holistic-care service followed here.<H4>A Solemn and Sublime Catholic Shrine –Holy Family Catholic Church</H4>Facing Daan Park, one of the holy grove of churches that has grown along “The Road of Heaven,” Holy Family Catholic Church first saw the light of day in Taipei in 1952, springing up on Andong St. The church moved to the present location in 1964. The complex is laid out in a simple rectangular pattern that forms the shape of the cross, evoking a strong aura of sacred holiness.From a bird's-eye view you can clearly see the layout of the church, in the shape of a cross. At night the complex is bathed in warm and gentle white light, bringing a clean, pure air of sacred nobility. The design of the church is like that of a tent, giving the interior an unobstructed feel of soaring flight. The effect is inspiring at the same time as it calms the soul. You'll much admire the wonderful stained-glass murals depicting stories from the Bible, 18 in total and over a century old, done by a well-known French artist Leveque. The glass strategically allows sunlight to stream into the interior in colored rays, most definitely creating a resplendence that makes you think you are being bathed in holy light direct from a higher source. You'll be captivated by the lofty aesthetics at the same time your spirit is liberated.<H4>Gothic Image of Ancient Belief – Zhongshan Presbyterian Church</H4>Located on Linsen N. Rd., this structure was originally the Taisho Street Anglican Church during the Japanese Colonial Period (1895-1945), built in 1927. Famed for its classically elegant Gothic styling, on the main door arch column you'll find the following inscription—“Foundation stone March 1937.” The church is among the city's most historic pieces of architecture. The Executive Yuan passed its third reading in 1982 to officially subsume the church under the name of “Taiwan Taipei Zhongshan Presbyterian Church.” The Taipei City Government gave this key element of our architectural heritage formal designation as a city historical site in 1996.From far away, you can see the three-tiered bell tower and a distinctive roof that comes to a sharp point, with crosses adorning the highest points. Though over half century old and with an exterior slightly mottled, the visual ambiance of the structure remains as always stately and imposing. Inside, which has a cruciform floor plan, many antiques from the Japanese period have been retained, such as the old organ, wooden seating, and wooden donation box. On site you'll also find two large stones with commemorative carved inscriptions from the time the Japanese completed the structure, majestic old trees that were planted at the same time, and other reminders of an intriguing past. The interior also includes arched suspension roof trusses, an architectural element rarely seen in Taiwan. Today the proud old site continues to stand tall amidst the more modern spires of a burgeoning city, the march of its noble history continued by a devoted group of believers of lofty ideal, dedicatedly preserving its traditions.<TABLE cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="1%" align="center" border="0"><TBODY><TR><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="5. Holy Family Catholic Church has a design using a simple rectangular geometric pattern to complement the cross, creating an ambiance of holy solemnity." title="5. Holy Family Catholic Church has a design using a simple rectangular geometric pattern to complement the cross, creating an ambiance of holy solemnity." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_05.jpg" height="150"/></TD><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="6. Holy Family Catholic Church has a tent-like shape, inviting all within, and inside is a large and bright space given a distinctive character by the 18 sections of stained glass, over a century old." title="6. Holy Family Catholic Church has a tent-like shape, inviting all within, and inside is a large and bright space given a distinctive character by the 18 sections of stained glass, over a century old." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_06.jpg" height="150"/></TD><TD><IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="7. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with the classical Gothic hammer-beam roof; the stained-glass windows feature images of the Garden of Gethsemane." title="7. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with the classical Gothic hammer-beam roof; the stained-glass windows feature images of the Garden of Gethsemane." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_07.jpg" height="150"/></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><H4>Architecture of Holy White – Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Taipei Taiwan Temple (Mormon)</H4>Located at the corner of Jinshan S. Rd. and Aiguo E. Rd., the Taipei Taiwan Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was formally opened in 1984. The ethereal effect of the pure-white facade is augmented by the majesty of the six steeples that circumnavigate the site, when at the time of building saw the use of the then rarely seen steel-skeleton construction technique and light partition-walls design. The uniqueness of this example of religious architectural modeling was brought feature coverage in Architecture magazine.<TABLE cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="1%" align="center" border="0"><TBODY><TR><TD><IMG alt="8. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with" title="8. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_08.jpg" height="150"/></TD><TD><IMG alt="9. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with" title="9. Zhongshan Presbyterian Church has a Gothic exterior, with" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_09.jpg" height="150"/></TD><TD><IMG alt="10. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Taipei" title="10. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Taipei" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/74_16_10.jpg" height="150"/></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Only devotees are permitted to enter the Taipei Taiwan Temple. This is the only Mormon temple in Taiwan. Among its six spires, the tallest soars 34.15 meters. Atop is a golden statue of the prophet Moroni, last to write in the golden plates central to Mormon belief. Both the interior and exterior of the temple are stunningly sublime, manifesting the bonds and symbolism that have been handed down generation upon generation among Mormon adherents, the zealous and energetic approach to being, and the striving for an uplifting existence that devotees are known for. Tours of the exterior of the site are available in English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, and Tagalog (a Philippine dialect), given by missionaries doing duty at the temple.<TABLE align="center"><TBODY><TR><TD bgcolor="#eeeeee">Information</TD></TR><TR><TD>Grace Baptist Church Tel: (02) 2362-5321 Add:90, Sec. 3, Xinsheng S. Rd. Hours: 07:00-21:00 Transportation: <UL><LI>MRT—Take the Xindian Line to Gongguan Station, take Exit No. 3, walk about five minutes to get to Xinsheng S. Rd. </LI><LI>Bus—0 South, No. 52, 109, 280, 284, 290, 311, 505, 530, 642, 668, 671, 675, 907, Songjiang main line, get off at National Taiwan University stop.</LI></UL> Taipei Truth Lutheran Church Tel: (02) 2363-2096 Add: 86, Sec. 3, Xinsheng S. Rd. Hours: 09:00-22:00 (closed Mon)Transportation:<UL><LI>MRT—Take the Xindian Line to Gongguan Station, take Exit No. 3, walk about five minutes to get to Xinsheng S. Rd. </LI><LI>Bus—0 South, No. 52, 109, 280, 284, 290, 311, 505, 530, 642, 668, 671, 675, 907, Songjiang main line, get off at National Taiwan University stop.</LI></UL>Holy Family Catholic Church Tel: (02) 2392-0701 Add: 50, Sec. 2, Xinsheng S. Rd. Hours: 06:00-22:00 Transportation:<UL><LI>Bus—No. 109, 253, 311, 505, 642, 643, 668, 671, 675, 676, Songjiang main line, get off at stop Jinhua Xinsheng Intersection.</LI></UL>Zhongshan Presbyterian Church Tel: (02) 2551-8480 Add: 62, Linsen N. Rd. Hours: 06:00-21:00 Transportation:<UL><LI>Bus—No. 5, 12, 26, 46, 52, 266, 282, 288, 292, 306, 307, 605, 622, 652, Red 25, Brown 9, get off at stop Nanjing Linsen Intersection.</LI></UL>Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Taipei Taiwan Temple Tel: (02) 2393-3285 Add: 256, Aiguo E. Rd. Hours: Inner sanctum not open; tours of exterior Tue~Fri 13:00-21:00, Sat 10:00-21:00, Sun and Mon by appointment. Transportation:<UL><LI>Bus—0 East, No. 20, 22, 38, 204, 214, 237, 606, 670, 671, Xinyi main line, get off at stop Xinyi Jinshan Intersection.</LI></UL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE> [][][][]Taipei City Government41415660https://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=7873143196DAD423&s=EBB943F8BFD22E03Xiahai City God Temple: Where the Eastern God of Love Grants Wishes<IMG style="FLOAT: left" alt="1.You can keep the good-fortune pouch from the Old Man Under the Moon on your person. 2.Bring good fortune to others by fulfilling your vow to bring bridal cake upon your own wishes being granted." title="1.You can keep the good-fortune pouch from the Old Man Under the Moon on your person. 2.Bring good fortune to others by fulfilling your vow to bring bridal cake upon your own wishes being granted." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/ch66_p6_01.jpg" width="220"/>In legend, Qixi or Chinese Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year when the young Cowherd and Weaver Girl can be together.This is also the day when the God of Love, the Old Man Under the Moon, is at his most powerful. Taiwan folk believe it is fate that brings lovers together, and naturally flock to the Old Man on Valentine’s Day to beseech him to grant a happy fate. Today in Taipei, the Old Man at the Xiahai City God Temple is most renowned and sought out, even bringing overseas travelers to the hopeful goings-on. Xiahai is one of the few local temples to have on-site information in English and Japanese to guide the wondering foreign guests. <IMG style="FLOAT: right" alt="3.The Xiahai City God Temple, also long known as the Old Man Under the Moon Temple, is a key Taipei Historical Relic of the Third Grade. 4.The City God, the temple’s main deity, protects and blesses the local populace" title="3.The Xiahai City God Temple, also long known as the Old Man Under the Moon Temple, is a key Taipei Historical Relic of the Third Grade. 4.The City God, the temple’s main deity, protects and blesses the local populace" src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/ch66_p6_02.jpg" width="300"/>Reportedly, last year Chinese Valentine's Day overlapped with the Japanese Yulanpen Festival, and a group of young Japanese ladies on vacation made a special visit to the Old Man Under the Moon. The Xiahai City God temple sits in the Datong District along Dihua Street, an important heritage area. Though it is small as “big” temples go, just 46 pings (1 ping equals 36 sq. ft.), it has been the core of the local people's universe faith since the area was founded in the 1860s, and is one of Taipei’s most important places of worship. Besides being the home to the City God, resident there are over 600 deity icons of all type residing there. But the most renowned, most beloved, and most visited is the Old Man Under the Moon, and thus the site is customarily called the Old Man Temple of the Old Man Under the Moon. In 1985, the Ministry of the Interior declared the temple an Historical Relic of the Third Grade, and has since used the City God’s wife and the Old Man Under the Moon, both similar in ways to Western gods of love, as the focus for publicity. Each year on Chinese Valentine’s Day, as the scented airs from burning incense sticks becomes especially thick and flourishing, the powers of the Xiahai Old Man to bring love into your life are notably strong, and known far and wide – but if you come to ask his favors you must strictly carry out the traditional rites, or you will have come for nought. Each year the temple sees over a thousand new brides and grooms returning to pay back the promises earlier made when asking the Old Man to help. This year, why not head down to the temple at Valentine’s and see what the Old Man can do for you if you’re single and looking for a honey? Temple attendees will help you with all the rituals, and you can also take in the many special and always exotic and fascinating events that the temple will be staging. Process for Requesting Romantic Love<OL><LI><IMG style="FLOAT: right" alt="In the Xiahai City God Temple the Old Man Under the Moon is the most renowned deity, bringing the lonesome from far and wide on Chinese Valentine’s, with the incense smoke heavy and the requests for love many." title="In the Xiahai City God Temple the Old Man Under the Moon is the most renowned deity, bringing the lonesome from far and wide on Chinese Valentine’s, with the incense smoke heavy and the requests for love many." src="http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/TCGENG/ch66_p7_01.jpg" width="300"/> The first time one visits the Old Man Under the Moon to ask for a sweetheart match, one must prepare white sugar, lead coins, the red silk thread the Old Man will be asked to pull on to tempt romantic fate, and joss paper. All these gifts can be purchased right at the temple, for about NT$310.</LI><LI>After lighting incense sticks, honor Tiangong (Ruler of Heaven), the City God’s wife, and the Old Man in that order. When doing so you must state your full name, address, date of birth (year/month/date), a description of the type of sweetheart match you seek, and what you will do after finding love to redeem the granting of your wish. </LI><LI>Next, temple attendees will help you ceremonially burn the joss paper and handle the tribute offerings, and you can eat the sweet foods and soup brought by others as payment redemption for the granting of their own wishes in order to sweeten your mood. </LI><LI>Finally, take one of the red silk threads draped over the Old Man’s shoulder, circle the censer before the temple three times, and place the thread on yourself to carry at all times. </LI></OL>The Xiahai City God Temple sternly warns worshipers not to take more than one thread, to avoid what is called the “spoiled peach blossom” or unwanted and troublesome romantic entanglements. <table width="252" border="1" style="float: left"> <tr> <th width="242" scope="col">Information</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Xiahai City God Temple Tel: (02) 2558-0346 Address: 61, Sec. 1, Dihua St. Datong District Hours: 6:00 am to 9:00pm　　 Website: http://www.tpecitygod.org/en-about-xia-hai01.html </td> </tr> </table>[][][][]Department of Information Technology, Taipei City Government