Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple: Most beautiful in Taipei?
Some links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase something through my links I may make a small commission at no extra charge to you. See my disclaimer.
Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple is an architectural masterpiece sitting on top of Mt Bishan. It’s an ancient temple that has stood on the mountaintop for hundreds of years and is a place of worship and a vibrant tourist attraction.
Offering one of the best views of the city, it has become a much-loved place to admire the city landscape from above.
| Country: | Taiwan |
| Currency: | New Taiwanese Dollar |
| Do you need a visa to visit as tourists? | Check here |
Don’t forget to get travel insurance to cover you if something bad happens. One company I have personal experience with is Safety Wing. Not everyone needs the same coverage, so make sure you get a personalised quote that suits you and your trip plans.
How to get to Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple
Location: No. 24่, Bishan Rd, Neihu District, Taipei City, Taiwan 114
Before you set off on your journey around Taipei, check that you have an active eSIM so you can stay connected to the internet and easily navigate the city.
Since Taipei is such a large city, it can seem overwhelming when trying to get around. Plus the temple is on the outskirts of the city on top of Mt Bishan, so it can take a while to reach.
Arrive by scooter or car
Although you can drive in Taipei, it is a very populated city and it can be easy to get around on a scooter instead of a car. Be aware that whichever mode of transport you choose will need to have the appropriate driving licence, and depending on which country you are visiting from, you may need an International Driving Permit.
- To rent a scooter
- To rent a car from Rental Cars or Klook Rentals
They say driving a car is typically safer, however, it can be quicker on a scooter as you can often get across junctions earlier due to the painted boxes for scooters at the front of intersections.
- If driving from Taipei 101 it takes an average of 23 minutes
- If driving from Taipei Main Station it takes an average of 30 minutes
Arrive by public transport
If you’re unable to drive or you’d prefer to take public transport, you’re in luck because Taipei has a very modernised transportation system. You can either use cash for each journey (which can be a nuisance trying to keep track that you have enough change) or you can get a travel pass.
Going to be in Taipei for a few days? I’d recommend the Unlimited MRT travel card for either 24, 48 or 72 hours.
From Taipei 101:
Walk 3 minutes to the City Government bus stop and get the 284็ฆๅพทไบ่ทฏ bus for 37 mins/26 stops. Get off at Huguang Market, walk for 5 minutes to Neihu Police Station and take the S2 shuttle bus for 7 stops/10 minutes. Get off at Bishanyan bus stop (Bishanyan Suspension Bridge).
From Taipei Main Station:
Take the Bannan Line (Blue subway) from Taipei Main Station for 11 stops/22 minutes to Nangang Exhibition Center. From this station take the Wenhu Line (yellow subway) for 5 stops/12 minutes to Neihu. Walk 4 minutes to Neihu Station bus stop and take the S2 shuttle bus for 5 stops/8 minutes to Bishanyan bus stop (Bishanyan Suspension Bridge)
Opening times & admission fees
The temple grounds are open every day from 5 am until 9:30 pm.
There are exceptions to this rule on public holidays for example such as Chinese New Year when the hours may differ (this can vary each year).
It is also free to enter the temple grounds. There is a small cafe where you can make purchases in which case you would need to bring some money to do so, but the temple itself has no admittance cost.
History of Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple
The Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple was created to worship a man named Chen Yuan-Kuang and two of his close generals named Li Po-yao and Ma Ren.
Many years ago, Chen Yuan-Kuang (who lived between 657 and 711 AD) was governed to help grow the economy of Zhangzhou City which, at the time during the Tang Dynasty, was completely rural and undeveloped.
Due to Chen’s positive actions, the region began to grow, the economy improved and the residents of the area were able to start working and enjoying a better way of life. This economic change gained Chen lots of respect among the locals and eventually, he became a famous deity that many people worship.
He eventually became the most sacred deity in the region and became known by a new name: Kai Zhang Sheng Wang.
When should you visit?
Technically you can visit this stunning temple at any time during its open hours, but there are a few times that offer something more special.
Early morning
It’s true what they say, the early bird catches the worm, and it’s true in reference to the temple too. If you arrive during early morning, not only will you beat the crowds but if you arrive during the first hour after opening, you’ll be able to catch the sunrise too.
Since it can be difficult to reach this destination that early with public transport, it’s only really an option for those on a scooter or in a car. Luckily with both options, you can travel on your own schedule.
Sunset
One of the best times to visit Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple (in my opinion) is in the afternoon a little while before the sun begins to set. Due to the panoramic view over the city of Taipei, plus the orange hues you can expect to see around sunset, it really might be one of the best views of Taipei 101 available.
If you visit during the week you’ll find it’s much less busy than on the weekend due to many people being at work or school so there will be fewer people. Weekends can get busy, especially towards sunset, so if you want to guarantee a good spot along the balcony for a good view, I’d advise trying to arrive at least 1.5 hours before sunset.
Nighttime
Not only is Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple a great spot in time for sunset, but it is also a popular place to enjoy the nighttime view of the city. Due to being situated so high up, the view across the illuminated city is arguably one of the best in the country.
The Bishanyan temple grounds are open for guests until 9:30 pm each night so there’s more than enough time to enjoy the nighttime cityscape before you make your way home.
Want to visit some other great views in Taipei? Check out the Elephant Mountain hiking trail.
What to expect at Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple
Architecture
Throughout the temple, you’ll find different areas that have seemingly different designs and this is due to multiple renovations being completed over the lifetime of the temple.
With the brightly coloured tiles and Chinese-style dragons across the roofs, you’ll see just how intricate each piece of the design is.
Viewing deck
From the viewing deck, you’ll get to see a panoramic birds eye across most of Taipei. From here you’ll recognise some famous landmarks such as:
- Taipei 101
- Songshan Airport
- Tamsui River
- Taipei Basin
- Liyu Mountain
Need help planning your trip?
Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more.
Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights.
HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations.
Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations AND flights worldwide.
Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads.
Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip.
Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies.
iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas.
Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide.
Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities.
Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.
