Temple of Prince Yanping

Introducing Yanping Prince Temple

The Prince of Yanping Temple, located in Shijing Town, Nan'an City, also known as the Kaishan King Temple, is the oldest and most venerable of Taiwan's temples dedicated to Zheng Chenggong. Enshrined within the temple are Zheng Chenggong and his generals. The temple's architecture consists of a screen wall, a main hall dedicated to Zheng Chenggong, a rear hall dedicated to the Empress Dowager and Prince Ningjing, and east and west wings.

The Prince of Yanping Temple faces south, with its back to the mountains and its front to the sea. Its central axis comprises the screen wall, mountain gate, courtyard, and main hall, flanked by verandas. The main hall, three bays wide and three bays deep, features a raised-beam timber structure with a gable roof and swallowtail ridges . Inside, couplets inscribed by Emperor Kangxi and inscriptions from various periods are displayed.

The first floor of the shrine houses prehistoric artifacts, illustrating the geographical relationship between Taiwan and mainland China. The second floor houses a collection of Tainan historical relics, including portraits and calligraphy by Zheng Chenggong, Shen Baozhen, and others. The east and west wings of the Prince of Yanping's shrine display tablets of Zheng's generals and ceremonial guards.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

NT $ 40 /person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Temple of Prince Yanping

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Temple of Prince Yanping was built to honor Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong), who is a national hero in Taiwan. Koxinga expelled the Dutch from Taiwan in 1662, and the temple serves as a site of worship and commemoration for his contributions to Taiwanese history and culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Temple of Prince Yanping is located in the heart of Tainan City. It is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. Walking from Tainan Railway Station takes about 15-20 minutes. Buses heading towards the city center also pass nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to the Temple of Prince Yanping is free of charge. Donations are welcome but not required. No tickets are necessary for general visits.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. The temple is open to the public without requiring prior reservations.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the temple and reading the historical plaques and exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The grand entrance and exterior architecture of the temple.
• The main hall, where a statue of Koxinga is displayed.
• The stone carvings and artwork inside the temple that depict historical events related to Koxinga.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin; it's recommended to check at the entrance for availability. Audio guides in English might be available upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The temple's entrance and the courtyard are perfect for photos of the building’s grand architecture.
• Capture the peaceful surroundings and the detailed carvings on the temple’s exterior and interior walls.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the courtyard and the main entrance.
• Then, enter the main hall to see the statue of Koxinga and read the accompanying historical texts.
• Finally, take a walk around the exterior of the temple to observe the carvings and artwork.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. The temple is a serene place to visit during the day for a peaceful experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The temple has basic facilities such as public toilets. There are no restaurants or shops within the temple, but there are many food options nearby in the Tainan city center.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple is accessible to most visitors, including the elderly and children. However, there may be some stairs that could pose a challenge for visitors with mobility issues. It’s best to check with staff for assistance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for donations, but there are no ticket fees. Cards and mobile payments are not typically used inside the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are many local restaurants and cafes near the temple, offering Taiwanese cuisine. Popular areas nearby include the Chihkan Tower area, which has a variety of food options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food may be available in specific restaurants, though options might be limited around the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the temple, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options, such as the Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Tainan.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Tainan Confucius Temple.
• Chihkan Tower.
• Koxinga Shrine, dedicated to the hero honored in the Temple of Prince Yanping.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the temple, but there are various shops in the surrounding area where you can buy traditional Taiwanese crafts, snacks, and local souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public buses and taxis are available for further travel around Tainan. You can also explore the city on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance of the temple.