Songshan Ciyou Temple is a six-story folk temple in Taipei’s Songshan District, dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess. Its tiered roofs, vivid carvings and ceramic dragons make the building worth exploring across its levels. Inside, several halls are home to Mazu and other deities, while worshippers bring offerings and burn incense. The temple stands beside Raohe Night Market, so you can pair a quiet visit with an evening among the market’s food stalls. You may also encounter a Daoist procession or ceremony.
A temple dedicated to Mazu
Songshan Ciyou Temple is dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess revered for protecting sailors and fishermen. It is also home to other deities, including the Earth God, Fude Zhengshen, and the Goddess of Birth, Zhusheng Niangniang. Several halls give the temple more than one focus for worship.
According to the temple’s founding legend, a wandering monk carrying a gilded image of Mazu met local devotees in Xikou, then a busy riverside trading port. The group raised funds for ten years. Construction began in 1753 and was completed in 1757, during the Qing Dynasty.
Six levels of carved detail
The current temple is a six-story structure with tiered roofs and richly decorated surfaces. Look up at the roof ridge for ceramic dragons and mythical figures. The roof arrangement includes two dragons facing three immortals, associated with wealth, happiness and longevity. Stone lions carved in 1803 guard the main entrance.
As you move through the building, notice the colorful decorations and the different halls, each with its own deity. Worshippers pray and burn incense throughout the day, so visitors share the space with people carrying out religious practices.
Ceremonies and the lunar calendar
The temple holds annual celebrations for Mazu’s birthday, which falls on the 23rd day of the third lunar month. The occasion includes processions and ceremonies. Daoist processions may also be seen at other times; these are religious events, so observe respectfully and leave worshippers room.
Visiting beside Raohe Night Market
Songshan Ciyou Temple is next to Raohe Night Market, close to the main market entrance. The two make a practical evening pairing: explore the temple, then continue to the market for its food stalls. The temple is open to visitors, but it remains a place of worship. Take care around people praying and the offerings they bring.
Perguntas frequentes
Who is Songshan Ciyou Temple dedicated to?
The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess. It also has halls for other deities, including the Earth God and the Goddess of Birth.
How old is Songshan Ciyou Temple?
Construction began in 1753 and was completed in 1757, during the Qing Dynasty.
What can you see inside the temple?
The six-story temple has several halls, colorful decorations, carved details and worship areas for multiple deities. Its roofs are adorned with ceramic dragons and mythical figures.
Can you visit Songshan Ciyou Temple with Raohe Night Market?
Yes. The temple is right beside Raohe Night Market, so you can combine the two in one evening visit.
