Songshan Ciyou Temple

Place of worship · Ciyou ·

Songshan Ciyou Temple

Place of worship · Ciyou ·

Ornate 18th-century temple dedicated to Mazu, next to Raohe Market

Information

No. 761號, Section 4, Bade Rd, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105 Get directions

@onthegrid

18,031 Postcards · 836 Cities

On the Grid : 慈祐宮 Ciyou Temple

"Anyone who arrive at the entrance of Raohe Night Market will hardly take a glance at the exquisite facade of Ciyou Temple and stop to take a picture. The temple was constructed in 1753 and dedicated to the Mazu, a local sea goodness. The main shrine room is often full of people praying and performing religious rituals." - Lin Yuhuan

https://onthegrid.city/taipei/songshan-district/ciyou-temple-%E6%85%88%E7%A5%90%E5%AE%AE

Songshan Ciyou Temple

@onthegrid

18,031 Postcards · 836 Cities

"慈祐宮 Ciyou Temple, Songshan District by Lin Yuhuan . Anyone who arrive at the entrance of Raohe Night Market willhardlytake a glance at the exquisite facade of Ciyou Temple and stop to take a picture. The temple was constructed in 1753 and dedicated to the Mazu, a local sea goodness. The main shrine room is often full of people praying and performing religious rituals."

Taipei

Songshan Ciyou Temple

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

Raohe Is the Single Best Taipei Night Market for Travelers | Eater

"A striking traditional temple with deep historical roots that sits adjacent to a major night market; its presence reflects the common postwar pattern of markets sprouting up around temples and intersections and contributes to the area's cultural and historical ambiance." - Chris Horton

https://www.eater.com/2019/3/6/18240098/raohe-night-market-taipei-best-dishes

Songshan Ciyou Temple

Monica E.

Google

The temple is located right next to Raohe Market and is a must-visit stop that truly opens up the full Taiwan experience. If you’re lucky, you might witness a worship ceremony like me. The temple doors are open to everyone, always encouraging respect from visitors. There are restrooms available — most are clean, with both squat-style and Western-style toilets, though the latter are fewer. The temple is colorful, with multiple floors and many deities. The floral decorations are vibrant and eye-catching, and there’s always incense burning and people offering prayers throughout the day. The architecture is breathtaking with all those details and design. Although it’s a beautiful temple, it’s not the most impressive one in Taipei.

Ruby P

Google

stunning temple with intricate architecture located right next to Raohe Night Market. The interior is clean, peaceful, and features many deities to worship. The detailed carvings on the roof are especially impressive and culturally significant. It is a perfect spot to appreciate local art and pray for good luck before exploring the nearby food stalls. A must-visit landmark in the Songshan area.

George F.

Google

Primary Deity: The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, who is revered for protecting sailors and fishermen. It is also home to a pantheon of other deities, including the Earth God (Fude Zhengshen) and the Goddess of Birth (Zhusheng Niangniang). Founding: According to legend, the temple's establishment began when a wandering monk carrying a gilded image of Mazu found a group of fellow Mazu devotees in the area, which was then known as Xikou (a busy riverside trading port). Construction: Together, they spent ten years raising funds, and construction began in 1753 and was completed in 1757 during the Qing Dynasty. Architecture: The current structure is an expansive, ornate six-story temple, featuring intricate traditional Chinese architecture with vibrant carvings, especially on its richly decorated roof. The roof ridge is adorned with ceramic dragons and mythical creatures, including two dragons facing three immortals symbolizing wealth, happiness, and longevity. The stone lions guarding the main entrance were carved in 1803. Cultural Significance: As a major center of faith in eastern Taipei, the temple plays a vital role in the local community, hosting annual celebrations, most notably for Mazu's birthday (the 23rd day of the third lunar month), which involves elaborate processions and ceremonies. Visited the temple while going to the next door night market, packed with tourists while I was there.

The Nomadic I.

Google

This is a prominent Taiwanese folk temple, built in the 18th century, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. And it's right next to Raohe Night Market. We were blessed with a Daoist procession along with a "sweet dew from the heavens" - romantic way of saying rain in Chinese. These parades are always interesting.

M Z

Google

Definitely worth a visit. Beautiful temple. Close to Raohe Night Market too.

RTanya

Google

I love this temple for its detail and beautiful very well maintained ornaments! I could feel the history and stories from the past!

Life's A.

Google

Rather spectacular temple with multiple levels and plenty of intricate decorations. Whilst being a place of worship, it also has a pleasant atmosphere. Worth visiting at night with a trip to the Raohe Markets.

Chin Wee H.

Google

Attractive temple located right beside Raohe night market.