Guandu Temple, Taipei
First published in 2019
Guandu Temple can be found in Beitou the northernmost part of Taipei. In fact, you have to use the same MTR as to Tamsui and can make a stopover here on the way back to the city. You find two reports on Tamsui here and here.
From Guandu MTR Station, you have to walk some 10 Minutes to reach the temple. But you can take a bus as well, just follow the signs.
The Guandu Temple is an old temple (I found different information from 1661 to 1712), but as it has been renovated frequently some parts are looking much more modern compared to Longshan Temple, just to name one. As quite common here the temple originally dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, now serves different purposes. Not easy to distinguish from a foreigner.
The temple is quite big with different levels and even a tunnel to reach a specific shrine. It is filled with stone carvings of lions, dragons, and other motifs.
The main hall was pretty crowded, but as soon as you walk away from it, it's getting quieter. You can walk around freely, explore and take pictures. And there is a lot the explore ...
