Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
rather than starting over with a fresh slab, simply turned the stone over and redid
everything on the other side.
Matsu Temple TAOIST TEMPLE
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(Dà Tiānhòu Gōng; 18 Lane 227, Yongfu Rd, Sec 2) This lively temple once served as the palace
of Ning Jin, the last king of the Ming dynasty. If you wish to confirm visually that a
king's status is lower than an emperor's, count the steps to the shrine. There are only sev-
en; an emperor would get nine.
Right before the king's death, the palace was converted to a Matsu temple according to
his last wish. Some features to note at this particular temple include the 300-year-old
Matsu statue and, in the back, the shrine to Matsu's parents in an area that used to be the
king's bedroom. Look up and you'll see the roof beam from which the king's concubines
hanged themselves so many years ago (see Wufei Temple, Click here ) .
Official God of War Temple TAOIST TEMPLE
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(Sì Diǎn Wǔ Miào, Sacrificial Rites Temple; 229 Yongfu Rd, Sec 2) This is the oldest and most im-
pressive temple in Taiwan dedicated to Guandi (Guangong), a Han-dynasty general dei-
fied as the God of War and the patron of warriors and those who live by a code of hon-
our.
The temple's overall structure was established in 1690, although much splendid art-
work and many historically valuable objects have been added over the years. The long,
deep-rose-coloured walls of this temple have always been one of its highlights. Other in-
teresting features include the beggar seats around the doorframe that the poor used to beg
alms from every visitor, and the high threshold at the entrance (originally designed to
keep women out!).
Dongyue Temple TAOIST TEMPLE
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(Dōngyuè Diàn; 110 Mincyuan Rd) People come here to communicate with the dead through
spirit mediums. It's a fascinating place to catch a glimpse of Taiwanese folk culture.
The first chamber of the temple holds the God of Mount Tai, the Taoist king of the un-
derworld; the second, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, who vowed to not attain Buddhahood as
long as there is still one suffering soul in hell; the last, a number of demon gods who rule
the underworld.
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