🏯 Longshan Temple Taiwan: A Peaceful Morning in Taipei (Tips + Updates)

Our last day in Taiwan was intentionally not a busy one.

We only planned two attractions because we didn’t want to feel stressed or rushed before heading to the airport. After days of walking, exploring, and eating our way through Taipei, we wanted our final day to feel calm and meaningful.

So our first destination that morning was one of the most famous and oldest temples in the city:

Longshan Temple (龍山寺).

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🌿 First Impressions: Old, Sacred, and Full of Life

 

We arrived at the temple early, thinking we’d beat the crowds…

But even in the morning, there were already a lot of people.

Locals were lighting incense, whispering prayers, offering fruits, and simply spending quiet time inside the temple. It made me realize how much this place is not just for tourists—it’s truly a spiritual home for many Taiwanese people.

The temple itself looked very old, rich with history, carvings, and traditional architecture that instantly made you feel like you stepped into another time.

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💧 The Manmade Waterfalls: My Favorite Part

What I loved the most about Longshan Temple wasn’t just the structure…

It was the manmade waterfalls inside the temple grounds.

They added such a peaceful and serene atmosphere—like nature and spirituality blending together. The sound of flowing water made the whole place feel more relaxing, especially after the busy energy of the city.

It was one of those moments where you just want to pause, breathe, and take it all in.

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🏮 About Mengjia Longshan Temple (A Living Piece of Taipei History)

The Mengjia Longshan Temple is considered one of the most well-known and respected temples in Taiwan. Built in 1738, it was originally established by settlers from Fujian, China, who wanted a gathering place for the growing Chinese community in Taipei.

Located in the old village area of Taipei, the Wanhua District, the temple has truly stood the test of time. Over the centuries, it has survived multiple natural disasters, earthquakes, and even war—making it not only a spiritual center, but also a powerful symbol of resilience.

During World War II, Longshan Temple was badly damaged when American bombers raided Taipei. It was accused that the Japanese were hiding arms inside the temple, which led to heavy destruction during the attack.

But what’s inspiring is this: since its construction, the residents of Taipei have continuously renovated, restored, and improved the temple and its surrounding grounds. Today, it represents the pride of Taiwanese worship houses.

Longshan Temple is unique because it reflects a mixture of beliefs—worshipping Buddhist and Taoist figures, as well as folk deities such as Mazu, the sea goddess loved throughout Taiwan.

It remains one of the largest and oldest temples in the country, and even though entrance is completely free, donations are welcomed to help maintain the temple’s beauty and upkeep.

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🍢 Street Food Outside the Temple

We didn’t stay long inside, but after walking around the temple grounds, we explored the surrounding streets.

And of course… we found street food.

One thing I really like about Taiwan is how clean and disciplined their street vendors are. The streets don’t feel chaotic, and food stalls are surprisingly organized.

So you don’t feel scared eating outside.

Everything feels safe, hygienic, and well-managed—something I truly appreciated as a traveler.

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🕒 Longshan Temple Visitor Updates (2026)

📍 Location: Wanhua District, Taipei City
🚇 Nearest MRT: Longshan Temple Station (Blue Line), Exit 1
⏰ Opening Hours:
Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🎟️ Entrance Fee: FREE

🙏 Best time to visit: Early morning for peaceful atmosphere

How to get there? Check this post: 🛕 How to Get to Longshan Temple Taipei (MRT Guide + Visitor Tips) 

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💡 Tips When Visiting Longshan Temple

✔ Dress respectfully (covered shoulders is ideal)
✔ Visit early if you want a quieter experience
✔ Don’t interrupt worshippers—this is an active temple
✔ Take your time admiring the carvings and dragons
✔ Explore the nearby streets for snacks and local life
✔ Bring small cash if you want to buy incense or offerings

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🌸 Longshan Temple was the perfect way to begin our last day in Taiwan.

It wasn’t about ticking off another tourist attraction.

It was about slowing down.

The waterfalls, the incense-filled air, the quiet prayers, and the calmness of the temple reminded me that travel isn’t always about rushing from one landmark to another.

Sometimes, the most beautiful memories come from peaceful places that let you breathe before saying goodbye.

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🌿 Lakwatserang Ligaw Quote

✨ “Some places don’t ask you to do more… they simply invite you to be still.”💙

📢 Have you visited Longshan Temple in Taiwan?

💬 What did you notice most—the architecture, the atmosphere, or the street food outside?
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More Taiwan stories coming soon 🇹🇼✨

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