Taipei Xia Hai City God Temple stands on Dihua Street in the historic Dadaocheng district. Built in the 1850s, this compact Taoist temple is dedicated to the City God and also draws people who pray to Yue Lao, the deity associated with matchmaking. Inside, look for colorful roof decorations, detailed carvings and figures of hundreds of deities. You can follow the guidance near the relationship deity, pray with incense or simply bring your palms together, then take a cup of blessing tea before exploring the traditional shops nearby.
A temple on Dihua Street
Taipei Xia Hai City God Temple is in Dadaocheng, at the southern end of Dihua Street. Built in the 1850s, it remains a place of worship dedicated to the City God. The temple is small, so its detailed decoration is close at hand: look for colorful roof ornaments and fine carvings.
The temple has more than 600 deity figures. Its resident City God is central to worship here, while Yue Lao, associated with matchmaking, has made the site a destination for people praying about relationships. Singles may pray for a partner; couples may ask for blessings for their relationship.
How to take part
You do not need incense to pray. Visitors can join their palms, and guidance near the relationship deity explains how to approach the ritual. Staff can also help direct visitors through the different prayers. A translation app may be useful if you do not speak Chinese.
A cup of blessing tea is offered before you leave. Once outside, Dihua Street gives you a chance to continue the visit among traditional shops selling items such as dried fruit, snacks and herbal tea. The temple’s location also makes it easy to explore the surrounding historic streets of Dadaocheng.
FAQ
Where is Taipei Xia Hai City God Temple?
It is on Dihua Street in the Dadaocheng district of Taipei.
What do people pray for at the temple?
The temple is dedicated to the City God, and people also pray to Yue Lao about relationships. Prayers for health and business blessings are also associated with the temple.
Do I need incense to pray?
No. You can join your palms and pray without incense. Guidance near the relationship deity can help you follow the ritual.
Is there anything to have before leaving?
A cup of blessing tea is offered at the temple before you leave.
