Zhinan Temple is a Taoist temple on the slopes of Monkey Mountain in Taipei’s Wenshan District. Its colorful buildings, painted doors and ceilings, and wishing decorations make the complex worth exploring, while its elevated position gives you views across the city, including Taipei 101. The temple has a dedicated stop on the Maokong Gondola, so you can pair a visit with a ride to Maokong’s tea houses and trails. Allow extra time if you plan to climb the stone steps or visit other temples nearby.
A temple on Monkey Mountain
Zhinan Temple stands on the slopes of Monkey Mountain in Wenshan District, southeast Taipei. The name refers to the southern direction: the temple faces south. It is also associated with Lu Enzhu, a deity said to reside in the southern temple of the Heavenly Court and use a compass to find people who need help.
The complex is known by some foreign visitors as the Temple of a Thousand Steps. The climb from below involves around 1,200 stone steps, so reaching the temple on foot takes more effort than a short stop might suggest. You can instead approach by car or use the Maokong Gondola, which has a station dedicated to the temple.
Details across the temple grounds
Take time to look closely at the temple buildings. Painted designs cover doors, walls and ceilings, and the colorful decoration continues through the wider complex. Wishing decorations hang around the grounds, including from trees, adding details to look for as you move between buildings.
The setting is peaceful and elevated above the city. From the temple, you can see across Taipei, with Taipei 101 among the landmarks visible from the area. A garden is also part of the grounds. Allow time to explore at an unhurried pace rather than treating the temple as only a viewpoint.
Arriving by gondola and continuing to Maokong
The Maokong Gondola connects Taipei Zoo, Zhinan Temple and Maokong. Get off at the temple station, then walk to the main temple buildings. The gondola is a practical way to reach the hillside without climbing the full flight of steps, and you can continue the ride to Maokong afterward.
Maokong is known for traditional tea houses and hiking trails, so the temple can fit into a longer outing. Other temples sit higher in the area, and you can include them if you have time. If you prefer a shorter visit, focus on the main complex, its painted details and the city views before continuing by gondola.
FAQ
How do you get to Zhinan Temple?
You can reach the temple by car or take the Maokong Gondola to its dedicated Zhinan Temple station. There is a walk from the station to the main buildings.
How many steps lead up to Zhinan Temple?
The stone route up to the temple has around 1,200 steps. The gondola or a car offers an alternative to climbing them.
Is there an entrance fee?
The temple is described as having no entry fee.
What can you see from Zhinan Temple?
The elevated site has views across Taipei, including Taipei 101. The grounds also have colorful temple buildings, painted details and a garden.
