Donghe Zen Temple — Donghe Zen Temple is located outside the East Gate of Taipei. Originally known as the Soto Sect Grand Temple Branch, it was first built by Japanese monks in 1908. The designer was also Japanese, Zen-taro Irie.

Donghe Zen Temple. Donghe Zen Temple is located outside the East Gate of Taipei. Originally known as the Soto Sect Grand Temple Branch, it was first built by Japanese monks in 1908. The designer was also Japanese, Zen-taro Irie. Donghe Zen Temple is located outside the East Gate of Taipei. Originally known as the Soto Sect Grand Temple Branch, it was first built by Japanese monks in 1908. The designer was also Japanese, Zen-taro Irie. In 1916, a Buddhist school was established to educate the children of monks and lay followers, teaching Buddhist doctrines and general knowledge. In 1935, it was renamed Taipei Middle School, and after World War II, it was renamed Taibei High School. In 1930, a towering bell tower was built in front of the main hall. It still exists today, but the main hall and other old buildings were severely damaged due to long-term occupation by the military and the public, and were unfortunately demolished in recent years. The bell tower's architecture is highly distinctive. Although it is a reinforced concrete structure, the details follow traditional methods. The roof is a single-eaved hip-and-gable style, covered with Japanese black tiles, and adorned with ghost tiles on the ridges. A large bronze bell hangs inside the second floor, and the external cantilevered platform railings exude an ethereal charm. The first floor uses rough-hewn stones with arched entrances, resembling a city gate. This was a popular architectural style in Japan during the Momoyama and Edo periods, evolving into modern Japanese-style architecture in the 20th century. (Source: Bureau of Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Culture) Address: 臺北市中正區華山仁愛路一段23巷 Hours: 00:00–23:59 Taipei