Visit Guandu Temple.

Guandu Temple, located next to the Guandu Wharf, was established around 1661 and is dedicated to Mazu. It is the oldest Mazu temple in northern Taiwan and was originally called Lingshan Temple, situated at the top of Lingshan Mountain. According to legend, in 1895, three old banyan trees at the temple entrance withered and died on the same night. The residents believed that Mazu was warning them of an impending disaster. Shortly after, the Japanese army occupied Guandu, causing destruction and chaos. However, the residents were able to escape the disaster because they had been forewarned. The dragon pillars, stone lions, and wall carvings at the entrance of Guandu Temple are exquisitely crafted. The door gods are depicted in relief, which is different from the usual painted style, giving them a unique charm. Inside the temple, the caisson, dougong, and beams are richly decorated with sculptures and paintings, making them very beautiful. To the right of Guandu Temple is an ancient Buddha cave about 80 meters long. At the entrance, there is a treasure mortar that can suppress all evil. Inside the cave, there are statues of 28 heavenly kings on both sides. At the end of the cave, there is a statue of the Thousand-Handed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin, whose many hands and eyes symbolize the salvation of all beings. After circling around the statue, you will find the exit of the ancient Buddha cave, where you can enjoy the view of the river mouth. 📍Address: No. 360, Zhixing Road, Beitou District, Taipei City 112, Taiwan 🕰️Business hours: 07:00–21:00