Built around the 1970s by none other than the Chinese community of course who were settling in the city of Cebu as a sanctuary of their prayers, a place for worship and above all, their sacred prayers. It has been standing from that day on until these modern days, yet although time has passed, the structure remains solid, survived through the storms and earthquakes. It is located in Beverly Hills Subdivision, Lahug, Cebu City.
Eventually, the temple had become a tourist attraction both for the foreigners and the locals alike. In fact it is a common spot included for the Cebu City tour packages. I on the other hand had been here when I was still small around three I believe then I went back after college and I can still recall that I have already stepped in that specific area, my memory seemed to be working well at that time.
After that, I have not yet visited it again but since this is a common place to visit when you are visiting Cebu, I have included this in the Cebu City DIY Tour in which one can arrange for himself, again with your own pace, time and budget.
No Entrance Fee
A great deal for all the budget travelers out there, this place don't collect any cent for your visit so make sure to take advantage of it. But note, this is again a sanctuary of prayers and meditation so silence and solemnity is strictly observed. There are also rules to follow while inside the temple so to not disturb those who are praying.
There are certain areas inside the temple where you are not allowed to take photographs such as inside the temple, as such, anyone who is eager to come in must be willing to take off his footwear and be quiet while inside, observe the people praying and ensure not to cause any noise that might disturb the devout.
Mini Great Wall of China
Visiting Taoist Temple is like visiting China too, they have their own mini replica of The Great Wall of China which every single visitors would need to surpass before reaching the main temple.
Eighty one steps has to be taken, a joyful climb as it could be as the view of Cebu City's horizon slowly reveal to each guests in every single step made. There's no reason to stop the walk as the view starts uncovering right before one's eyes. Then you'll finally realize you have reached the temple with two hungry lion statues waiting at the temple base.
Oh! Don't forget to take photos of some fallen Kalachuchi flowers along the way. They are nice accessories too for those ladies who are feeling pretty during the climb.
Architectural Beauty
One good reason why one has to visit Taoist Temple aside from its historic and religious side is the fact that it has great architectural designs. I bet Chinese temples in China looks more amazing. For now, seeing these dragons perfectly lying on top of each building's roof shows how they intricately designs their structures. I personally don't think dragons are real but seeing these figures up close, I had a change of heart, perhaps they might be real. I am not imaging that they are but there's a possibility.
I can't help but take a pose.
It was cool to find them like looking over the city, somehow it also reminds me of the dragons of the childhood favorite anime, Dragon Balls. The walls, enclosures, surfaces, trims and finishes all have been painted in red, green and white with touches of blue and yellow colors.
Baguas are also a common sight inside the temple, there are ones in the wall, some are painted in the surfaces while there are actual ones positioned in the walls and even a huge one at the garden area, I even made a pose with it.
Taoism
Taoist Temple was originally made solely for the religion Taoism which follows the teachings of the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu.
Ever wonder why Chinese love collecting Koi? They have them in their house aquariums, their ponds even on their public places. This kind of tradition has also been influenced to the Filipinos. Notice in the malls and other public areas where there are Chinese businesses, Kois are very common. Well, they consider these type of fishes as good luck. It is a belief that these take away bad elements off from their family members such as illnesses and keeps them away from accidents.
A famous quote by Lao Tzu states:
"Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime."
How to get there?
From downtown Cebu, you can either take a jeepney with code 17B or if coming from SM Cebu, take 04L. Advise the driver to drop you at Eskina Sudlon. From there, habal-habal drivers can take you to the exact site for Php 20. Or for much more easier and hassle free travel, you can book a grab or uber ride.
Note: Some drivers would take advantage of you by asking for price higher than that. Make sure to tell them you know the right fare.
Entrace Fee:
Zero PesosTaoist Temple is open to non-worshipers from 8am to 5pm.
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