Longshan Temple, Taipei's premier Buddhist temple

Mengjia (now known as Wanhua) is the earliest developed area in Taipei City, and Longshan Temple, Taipei's first and most famous temple, was the center of local residents' faith, activities, gatherings, and organization. Legend has it that a person once left a bag of incense offerings for Guanyin (the Bodhisattva of Compassion) on a large banyan tree, which miraculously emitted light at night. Even more strangely, it was said to grant all requests, proving remarkably efficacious. Therefore, believers built Longshan Temple on that spot, starting in 1738 and completing it in 1740. Over the past two centuries, Longshan Temple has undergone numerous renovations, its entire structure forming a complete "square", a very prestigious layout in traditional temple architecture.

Longshan Temple in Mengjia primarily enshrines Guanyin Bodhisattva, but also worships numerous other deities, including Manjushri Bodhisattva, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, the Eighteen Arhats (in the main hall), and in the rear hall, the Heavenly Mother, Wenchang Emperor, Guan Sheng Emperor, Yue Lao (the Old Man Under the Moon), Hua Tuo (a legendary physician), the Goddess of Childbirth, the City God, and the God of Fortune. One can pray to the right deity for wealth, marriage, education, health, offspring, or to ward off misfortune. When worshipping, one should pay respects to the deities in each hall in order of worship.

▲The left photo shows a place where the Old Man Under the Moon (Yue Lao) is worshipped, and devout men and women are praying for marriage.

First, one can see the unique bronze dragon pillars cast in Taiwan in 1918 in front of the temple. The wood carvings and paintings under the eaves are also very vivid. In particular, the "net-shaped brackets" supporting the roof are a first creation in Taiwanese temples. Additionally, the stone window to the left of the main entrance is carved with a captivating story from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms; to the right is an octagonal bamboo-shaped window with bamboo stalks carved on it, symbolizing "bamboo bringing peace." Because the main gate is only opened during festivals and ceremonies, people usually enter through the left-hand gate and exit through the right-hand gate.

For foreigners, Longshan Temple is indeed a temple full of mystery and art. Inside, you can see many people praying to the deities; some hold incense and bow, while others are casting divination blocks. Worshippers sometimes ask the deities questions, usually three times, then throw the blocks. One face up and one face down is called a "holy divination," and three positive results mean agreement.

▲ On the birthday of a certain deity, deities from other counties and cities would come to offer their congratulations, creating a grand spectacle.

▲ The XTRA BUZZ series is ideal for long hikes and camping.