Xingtian Temple Beitou Branch - Zhongyi Temple Introduction
Xingtian Temple Beitou Branch, commonly known as "Zhongyi Temple," is dedicated to Guanshen Emperor and is located at No. 50, Lane 18, Section 4, Central North Road, Beitou District, Taipei City. This branch temple is an offshoot of the bustling Xingtian Temple on Minquan East Road, Taipei City, but its history predates that of the main temple. The original Taiwan Railway "Zhongyi Station" and the current MRT "Zhongyi Station" are named after their proximity to "Zhongyi Temple." The "Guandi Temple Xingtian Temple," known to devotees in the past as the "Jiutai Street Enzhu Gong Temple," was originally located near the Xinxing Junior High School in the present-day Zhongshan District of Taipei City. With its thriving worship, Guandi Temple Xingtian Temple had to actively seek a new location for relocation due to its land being designated for school use. In 1956, a new auspicious site for the temple was identified at Beitou's Gāo Liú Bié (now Zhongyi Mountain). Funded by Master Xuan Kong, one of the builders of Xingtian Temple, the new temple was completed and celebrated on May 31, 1965, showcasing a grand three-hall structure. The temple area covers approximately 8 hectares, with majestic temple architecture, a library, lush greenery, rich natural ecology, well-planned pathways, garden landscapes, resting pavilions, parking lots, and public restrooms. It also serves as the starting point for the Zhongyi Mountain hiking trail planned by the city government. Ascending from the foot of the mountain along the stairs, the first sight is a vast green grassy area, garden landscapes, and a coconut palm avenue. Continuing upwards, one passes through the Sun and Moon Gate to arrive at the spacious front hall of the Beitou Branch. The temple courtyard is very spacious, and the red walls interweave with the gray stone floor under the blue sky, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Beyond the mountain gate, one can see the elegant Yuhuang Palace and the Bell and Drum Tower, which showcase the beauty of grand architecture. After worshipping at the Yuhuang Palace, the rear hall, and the San Yuan Hall, one can turn towards the back mountain to experience the tranquility of nature. Strolling along the shaded paths lined with dense trees, gazing up at the lush bamboo or inspecting the weathered extraordinary rocks, one is further immersed in the serene scenery. From the right side, ascending the 800 steps provides a distant view of the Guandu Plain and the Tamsui River, offering a broad and refreshing vista, making it the perfect spot for tourism, hiking, and spiritual reflection along the North Tamsui Line.
