Shitoushan

Introducing Shitoushan

Shitoushan (Shītóushān) is a foothill on the border of Miaoli and Hsinchu Counties. Beautiful dense forests and rugged rock faces define the topography, but if you ask anyone it is the temples tucked into caves and hugging the slopes that have given the place its fame. Shitoushan is sacred ground for the island’s Buddhists and draws big weekend crowds, with people coming to worship or simply enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the mountain. Over the years, Shitoushan has been consistently described by Lonely Planet travellers as a highlight of their trip to Taiwan.

Yuanguang Temple (; Yuánguāng Sì) was the first temple to be constructed in the area (in 1894). Many more buildings were added over the years, including Chuanhua Tang (; Quànhuà Táng), which today also serves as a guesthouse, and the main gate, built in 1940 by the Japanese to celebrate the 2600th anniversary of their royal court (that’s one ancient royal line!). There are 11 temples, five on the front side of the mountain, six on the back, as well as numerous smaller shrines, arches and pagodas. Shitoushan is a veritable temple wonderland and a great hit with photographers, nature lovers and temple aficionados. Give yourself at least three hours to explore the area or an overnight stay for the full effect.

On the other side of the mountain, connected by a walking trail, is the Lion’s Head Mountain Visitor Centre (580 9296; 9am-5pm). The centre is a pleasant place to grab a meal or a map, should you wish to explore beyond Shitoushan itself.

Visitors (including non-Buddhists) are allowed to stay overnight at Chuanhua Tang (Chuanhua Hall; 822 020, 823 859; d/tw NT800/1100). Excellent vegetarian meals are NT60 each, but if that doesn’t appeal to you there are stalls and shops lining the back parking lot and even a café on the way up the stairs to the hall. The old rules forbidding talk during meals or couples sleeping together are no longer enforced, but do be on your best behaviour.

From the car park it’s a short walk up the stairs to Chuanhua Tang. The check-in counter is to the left, just before the temple. There’s a large map (with some labels in English on it) on the right side of the car park to show you the way.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009