Dalongdong Baoan Temple — Local services in Taipei

Baoan-gong Temple, located next to the Confucius Temple, in old Dalongdong area of Taipei, which is the old or early immigrants communities (from China) in Taipei, is one of a few Taoist temples in old Taipei city. Baoan Temple survived Chiang Kai-Shek ruling era and increased its cultural influence in Taipei Taoism activities, because it was non-political during and post Chiang Kai-shek area and because it engages in humane social service works for the poor. In the last 30 something years, Baoan Temple becomes the center and main supporter of annual Taipei Cultural Festival and the main donor for the poor in winter season. For example, it would give rice and other cooking material for the poor before winter season comes.

Baoan Temple and two other old Taiwanese Taoist temples in Dalongdong and Dihua Street area- Hsing-hsin-Gong Temple [address: No 2 and 9, Lane 307, Section 1, Dihua Street, Taipei] and Chieh-Hsiu-Gong Temple- were the favorites of old or senior Taoist believers in Taipei. However, Chieh-Hsiu-Gong Temple lost about 80% of its temple space because of power of eminent domain when Taiwan government took over its temple space for building National Highway 1, although it still has its influence in certain intellectuals and bureaucrats, such as current Taiwan Central Banker who is the regular donor for the temple's social service. Then, Hsing-hsin-gong Temple gradually lost its Taoism influence because it is located in narrow street with small building when old communities if the area also gradually disappear with younger generations move out the area, even though it was rebuilt from 3-floor of wood temple to 4-floor concrete temple..

Compared to other Taoist temples, Baoan Temple still preserves its cultural and religious practices and ceremonies, such as 8-family General Parade and Dance. During annual Taipei Cultural Festival, traditional Taiwan Opera is performed in its garden, which is across its temple.

April and early May is an excellent time to visit the temple when there is also a series of cultural and religious activities, including parade or gods and generals patrol along the community streets, Taiwanese opera and other shows.

The rear worship hall of the Temple actually worships Buddhist deities and visitors can enjoy the beauty of scenic view of temple roof and nearby area from the top-floor porch of the rear worship hall,

During Chinese new year or January of farmer calendar, temple also has various religious services, including new-year worshippers' pray service, which generally requires worshippers to bring their own worn clothes, which are placed with special dishes of duck egg, fried bean curds, and sliced pork (provided by the Temple) and prayed by Taoist Master under special group ceremony chanting.

For 2023, from April 23 to June 19, it is the Temple's annual...

Great memory visiting here, save one star for next visit. The Da Longdong Baoan Temple, also known as the Taipei Baoan Temple, is a famous temple located in Taipei, Taiwan. Built in 1805, the temple is one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in Taipei.

The temple is dedicated to Bao Sheng Da Di, the Chinese god of medicine and health, and is believed to have healing powers. The temple's intricate decorations and ornate architecture reflect a blend of Chinese and Taiwanese styles, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

One of the temple's most impressive features is its dragon pillars, which are believed to be the largest of their kind in Taiwan. The temple's interior is also stunning, with elaborate carvings and vibrant murals depicting scenes from Chinese mythology.

The temple hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Baoan Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors to the temple to participate in the colorful parades and ceremonies.

Visitors to the Da Longdong Baoan Temple can explore the temple's rich history and culture, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this important religious site. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Taiwanese history and traditional...

My most favorite temple in all of Taiwan (so far). Super clean and well-cared-for example of ancient Chinese temple architecture. Go at night for a step back in time: Glowing red lanterns, temple incense, and judicial use of modern lighting accent the highly detailed artistry and excellent craftsmanship. A must see is also the 4th floor of the rear adjacent temple addition: You get a mesmerizing view of the temple rooftops. It is often missed by most tourists.

The Baoan Temple Gardens across the street offer a relaxing change of pace: you can view a large koi pond, dragon fountain, and stroll amidst old trees and man-made paths. Bring a little dog food to feed the fish (much better for them than white bread).

Note to Baoan Temple Management: I love your temple. It is a jewel of Taiwan. Could you please post descriptions in English about each of the gods at each section? This is the best way for me to learn about and appreciate your...