#chinatravel Cijin Tianhou Tem

#chinatravel
Cijin Tianhou Temple** (旗津天后宮), Kaohsiung’s oldest Mazu temple, including how to get there, what to see, and nearby attractions:

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### **1. About Cijin Tianhou Temple**
- **History**: Built in **1673** during the Qing Dynasty, it’s Taiwan’s first temple dedicated to **Mazu**, the sea goddess and protector of fishermen. Legend says a fisherman founded it after surviving a typhoon .
- **Architecture**: A classic southern-style temple with intricate swallow-tail roofs, dragon carvings, and a rustic charm. The interior houses historic artifacts and incense-filled halls .
- **Cultural Significance**: A spiritual hub for locals, especially fishermen, with rituals like lantern offerings during festivals .

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### **2. How to Get There**
#### **From Kaohsiung City**:
1. **By MRT + Ferry** (Cheapest & Easiest):
- Take the **Orange Line MRT to Sizihwan Station**, then walk **6 mins** to **Gushan Ferry Pier**.
- Board the ferry to **Cijin** (NT$20–30 with EasyCard, 5–10 min ride, departs every 10 mins) .
- From **Cijin Ferry Terminal**, the temple is a **5-min walk** east along Miaoqian Road (Cijin Old Street) .

2. **By Taxi**: Direct to Gushan Pier (NT$130–160, 20 mins from central Kaohsiung) .

#### **On Cijin Island**:
- The temple is **centrally located** near the ferry terminal, making it easy to combine with other attractions like Cijin Beach or the lighthouse .

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### **3. What to Do at the Temple**
- **Explore the Halls**: Admire the **Mazu statue**, historic plaques, and intricate carvings. Look for the **"swallow-tail ridge" roof** with twin dragons .
- **Light Incense**: Participate in traditional prayers (incense sticks are provided).
- **Lantern Displays**: Visit during festivals (e.g., Mazu’s birthday in April) for vibrant lanterns and ceremonies .

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### **4. Nearby Attractions**
Combine your visit with these spots (all within 10–15 mins’ walk):
- **Cijin Old Street**: Sample grilled squid, swordfish cakes, and mango shaved ice .
- **Cijin Lighthouse & Cihou Fort**: Panoramic harbor views (free entry, closed Mondays) .
- **Cijin Beach**: Black-sand coastline with art installations like the Rainbow Church .

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### **5. Practical Tips**
- **Hours**: Open daily, roughly **6:00 AM–8:00 PM** (no strict closing time) .
- **Dress Code**: Modest attire preferred (avoid shorts/tank tops).
- **Best Time to Visit**: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat .