
Qingan Temple, Keelung
Qingan Temple is one of Keelung’s oldest and most culturally significant religious sites. Originally established in 1780 during the Qing Dynasty, the temple has long served as a spiritual center for local residents, particularly among the Minnan-speaking community. It is dedicated to the sea deity Mazu, revered by fishermen and sailors for protection and safe passage. The temple’s location near the harbor reflects its close historical ties to maritime life and the daily rhythms of a coastal port town.
The structure has undergone several renovations over the centuries, especially after damage during World War II, but many traditional architectural features have been preserved. Visitors will notice its ornate wooden carvings, intricate dragon pillars, and brightly colored tiled roof, all hallmarks of southern Fujian-style temple design. Incense wafts through the air as worshipers come to pay respects, light joss sticks, and offer prayers—a living expression of local faith and continuity.
Inside the temple, richly adorned altars display statues of Mazu and other Taoist deities, surrounded by ceremonial items and symbolic offerings. The walls and ceilings are lined with decorative motifs that reflect folk beliefs and Chinese mythology, making the space visually engaging for those interested in religious art and symbolism. During major temple festivals, such as Mazu’s birthday, the temple becomes the focal point for lively processions and traditional performances.
The structure has undergone several renovations over the centuries, especially after damage during World War II, but many traditional architectural features have been preserved. Visitors will notice its ornate wooden carvings, intricate dragon pillars, and brightly colored tiled roof, all hallmarks of southern Fujian-style temple design. Incense wafts through the air as worshipers come to pay respects, light joss sticks, and offer prayers—a living expression of local faith and continuity.
Inside the temple, richly adorned altars display statues of Mazu and other Taoist deities, surrounded by ceremonial items and symbolic offerings. The walls and ceilings are lined with decorative motifs that reflect folk beliefs and Chinese mythology, making the space visually engaging for those interested in religious art and symbolism. During major temple festivals, such as Mazu’s birthday, the temple becomes the focal point for lively processions and traditional performances.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Keelung. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Qingan Temple on Map
Sight Name: Qingan Temple
Sight Location: Keelung, Taiwan (See walking tours in Keelung)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Keelung, Taiwan (See walking tours in Keelung)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Keelung, Taiwan
Create Your Own Walk in Keelung
Creating your own self-guided walk in Keelung is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Keelung Introduction Walking Tour
Keelung, a coastal city in northeastern Taiwan, is known for its bustling harbor, rich maritime heritage, and moody charm shaped by frequent sea mist and rain. Once a vital trade and military port, it has evolved into a lively urban center with deep historical roots, particularly visible in its forts, temples, and colonial-era architecture. Nestled between hills and the Pacific Ocean, Keelung... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles