Lungshan (Dragon Mountain) Temple in Taipei is nearly 250 years old, although it has been rebuilt four times. The first structure, completed in 1740, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1817 and the second by a typhoon in 1867. Decay brought another rebuilding in 1926. An Allied bombing destroyed that temple in 1945, and the Lungshan edifice of today was dedicated in 1959. Located in Wanhua, one of Taipei's oldest sections, it is visited by many tourists.
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As legend has it, the site of Lungshan was chosen because a Chuanchou trader from the Chinese mainland left his amulet on a banyan tree. Local residents saw light reflected from the amulet and noted the inscription "Goddess Kuan-yin of Lungshan Temple." They took this as a sign of Kuan-yin's favor and made pilgrimages to Lungshan Temple at Anhai in Fukien Province to pray that she would extend her blessing to Manka, the old name for Wanhua district of Taipei. Left, top: Buddhist worshippers. Left, bottom: Monk beats Muyu and chants. Center, top and middle: Bell is rung and drum beaten on the eve of the Lunar New Year (February 15 this year) to signify the change. Center, bottom: The skull-shaped Muyu. Right, top: Lantern supposed to summon home the souls of the deceased.
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Lungshan Temple is dedicated to Matsu, Goddess of the Seas, as well as to Kuan-yin, Goddess of Mercy. A hall was built in honor of Matsu by the Manka Chuanchou Merchant Guild in thanks for the safe return of Chuanchou trading ships. The temple played an important role in the rise of Manka as the center of commerce that grew up along the Tamsui River, which then was navigable. Taiwan's first settlements were in the southwest. When traders came to Taipei, it was to buy from the aborigines. Clockwise from top left: Roof design of the temple. Intricate carvings just under the eaves. Plaque inscribed with the name of the Lungshan Temple. Stone carving of two dragons contending for a pearl. Golden Lamp which illuminates the main hall.