Songshan Ciyou Temple. Ciyou Temple was built in 1753, with a history of over two hundred years. It primarily enshrines the Black-Faced Mazu. Ciyou Temple was built in 1753, with a history of over two hundred years. It primarily enshrines the Black-Faced Mazu. Legend has it that after Mazu attained enlightenment and became an immortal, she often rescued distressed ships at sea. She is a very common deity in Taiwanese folk beliefs. The temple is a six-story square building. The main hall, the San Chuan Hall, is solemn and grand. The roof ridge features double dragons paying homage to the three immortals of Fortune, Prosperity, and Longevity, symbolizing blessings. The stone lions in the San Chuan Hall are works from 1803. They were once discarded elsewhere during several renovations but were later discovered and placed in front of the San Chuan Hall. They represent the traditional "male lion with mouth open, female lion with mouth closed," which is very rare in Taiwan, making them a treasure of the temple. In addition to stone carvings, the wood carvings here are also vibrantly colored, with flowers, animals, and figures depicted lifelike, giving the temple a magnificent feel. Ciyou Temple has always been the spiritual refuge for the residents of the thirteen streets of Xikou. Every year on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, the birthday of the Heavenly Holy Mother, the thirteen streets of Zhuang, in conjunction with Ciyou Temple, divide into three routes: East, South, and North. Along the way, shops and homes set up altars, preparing offerings of meat, fresh flowers, and fruits to respectfully welcome Mazu on her procession. This makes the entire Songshan District bustling with activity. In recent years, Ciyou Temple remains a local focal point, not to mention its proximity to Raohe Street Night Market, naturally making it lively.
Address: 臺北市松山區潭美八德路四段765
Hours: 00:00–23:59
Taipei