Mengjia Longshan Temple

As is common in Taiwan, there's a mixture of deities worshipped in the temple, with Buddhist, Taoist and other gods such as Guanyin and Mazu (Chinese goddesses). Just walking around the incense-filled rooms, past shrines devoted to different deities and listening to the chanting of monks and devotees (best heard at 6am or 5pm) is an impressive experience. Although this is very much an active temple for praying and worshipping, visitors and photography are welcome, but do be respectful. There's also lots of art to see inside Mengjia Longshan Temple, with some excellent calligraphy and mosaic art, but it’s the overall ambiance of peace and tranquillity that is most impressive.

Longshan Temple is located in the Old City district of Wanhua. It's easy to find, just a few paces from Ximen MRT Station. The gift shop is stocked with lots of interesting souvenirs, but prices are higher than Guangzhou Night Market and Huaxi Night Market, both located nearby. Entrance is free but donations are accepted for the upkeep of the temple.