Description of the attraction
The Taoist Temple, built in the capital of the island of Cebu in 1972, is located in the prestigious urban area of Beverly Hills, 6 km north of the city center. The construction of the temple was initiated by the Chinese community of Cebu, firmly established on the island - suffice it to say that the Chinese make up 15% of the total local population. Rising 300 meters above sea level, the multi-colored multistage temple has become one of the main attractions of Cebu, which can be reached by three roads. The temple is a prayer house for followers of Taoism, a religion founded by the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu.
Unlike the nearby Fu Xian Temple, the Taoist Temple is open to everyone, both Taoists and ordinary tourists who want to admire its exotic architecture. And believers come here to ask for the fulfillment of their desires: for this you need to wash your hands, go barefoot inside the temple and throw two planks. If both boards fall face up, then the desire will come true, and if not, then the time has not come yet. Another ritual practiced by followers of Taoism on Wednesdays and Sundays is to climb the 81 steps of the temple, which symbolize the 81 sacred books of Taoism, and light an incense stick.
The entrance to the temple is a miniature model of the Great Wall of China, behind which is the temple itself with a traditional pagoda roof, a library, a souvenir shop and a well where coins are thrown to make wishes come true. From the hill on which the temple stands, there is a wonderful view of Cebu and the surrounding area. A very part of them are brought here on excursions, primary school students from the schools of Cebu and the neighboring city of Mandaue.
