The Taoist Temple

Cebu's Taoist Temple is just one of the few renowned temples in the heart of Cebu City. It is located at Beverly Hills Subdivision in Lahug. 

This top Cebu tourist spot was built in 1972 by the prominent Chinese community living in the city. The towering multi-story temple has an elevation of about 300 meters above sea level. It showcases the distinct cultural influences of Chinese architecture to the Cebuano landscape. 

Entrance to the temple

Many tourists from all over the world flock to this temple for its ominous architectural design and its contemplative nature fit for all those looking for some peace and quiet. Both worshipers and non-worshipers can enjoy the temple's botanical gardens and its outdoor landscapes that feature the distinct dragon-inspired designs known in Ancient China. 

Dragon sculpture

The Taoist Temple is also a popular place for devotees to pray to the gods of the Temple. The worship is done through a ritual that requires the devotees to first wash their hands, go barefoot inside the grandiose chapel, and drop two blocks of wood that are shaped like seeds.

Taoist Temple

The Taoist Temple is a fantastic, educational and cultural landmark in Cebu's tourism, and has been a popular go-to place during grade school field trips and side trip tours when tourists decide to explore the tourist spots around the entire Metro Cebu. 

Other parts of the temple that tourists can visit include a souvenir shop, its library and the famous wishing well just steps away from the dragon replica outside.

Steps leading to the chapel

Note: This article was contributed by Joel Torres of Affordable Cebu Tours. Photos are from clients of South Shore Travel and Tours and are used with permission.