Xishe Xilong Temple. The first time you see it, you'll be drawn to the character "㡣" above the temple, making you wonder: "Is it a typo, a deliberate choice, or does this character not even sound like 'long'?". The first time you see it, you'll be drawn to the character "㡣" above the temple, making you wonder: "Is it a typo, a deliberate choice, or does this character not even sound like 'long'?" In fact, this is an archaic variant of the character "龍" (long), no longer in use today, but with the same meaning and pronunciation. This temple is located in an alley off Guosheng Road in Anping, slightly away from the tourist crowds. It is an ancient temple built in 1738, primarily dedicated to Chifu Qiansui, protecting the residents of Anping Wangcheng Xishe. Whether it's praying for safety at sea or performing various rituals, Xilong Temple is indispensable. The temple houses numerous deities, with the most prominent being the very large Xiefu and Huangfu Yuanshuai on either side of the main hall. The most unique aspect is the image of the Tudigong (Earth God) inside the hall, which is very different from the familiar depiction. He wears a skullcap and a mandarin jacket, and holds a large pipe. Legend has it that he was carved in the likeness of a local benevolent gentry, Wang Jishi. Because he holds a pipe, devotees often offer cigarettes as a form of worship, making it a major highlight for visitors. Behind Qingyun Temple on the second floor, there is also a narrow Bird Mountain (Niaoxing Shan) - Anle Cave. It is said that passing through this cave brings safety. Those confident they won't get stuck in the cave can give it a try.
Address: 臺南市安平區國勝路35巷12號
Hours: 00:00–23:59
Tainan