Taiwan has no shortage of spectacular temples to enjoy. Among these is a subset that I find particularly fascinating: temples in caves. These temples, often nestled within caves or rocky outcrops, offer a unique blend of spirituality and natural wonder, inviting visitors to delve into Taiwan’s diverse religious traditions and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes.
Below you’ll find brief introductions to ten walks that include visits to cave temples, as well as links to full write-ups of each hike.
Yuemei Cave
The hike to Yuemei Cave on the western edge of Keelung is short and easy enough, with the option to add in a tougher scramble to a nearby peak with distant views of Taipei 101. The crepuscular cave is wide and open, and while it is not the easiest place to get to without your own transportation, the peaceful atmosphere makes it worth the effort.
A full route guide for the Mount Xiangongshu and Yuemei Trail with a GPX file can be found here
Buddha’s Light Cave on the Taipei Skyline Trail
The Buddha’s Light Cave (or Foguang Cave) is the highlight of this section of the Taipei Skyline Trail in Keelung. Used as an air-raid shelter during World War Two, this is an interesting spot to visit, but the trail itself is challenging, with slippery paths, steep scrambles and poor signage.
A full route guide for the Taipei Skyline Trail Section 4 with a GPX file and transportation information can be found here.
Miaoli’s Lion Mountain Temple Complex
If you want to get the biggest bang for buck, look no further than Lion Mountain in Miaoli. This area is teeming with cave temples of all shapes and sizes. These days, not all of them feel so cavey, but one or two still have cave chambers that you can visit.
A full route guide for a walk on Lion Mountain with a GPX file and transportation information can be found here.
Fude Cave Temple
Lingbo Temple Trail is a hidden gem located in Xizhi, not far from Taipei. This short and easy trail offers stunning views of the surrounding area, a charming temple nestled in a cave, and a relaxing stroll along a fishing pond. While it may not be well-known, it’s a delightful escape from the city just a short distance away.
A full route guide for Lingbo Temple Trail with transportation information and a GPX file can be found here.
Shiguanyin Temple on the Taoyuan Valley Trail
There has been a temple at this site close to Taiwan’s northeastern coast since at least the 1820s. These days, hikers typically pay a visit to the temple on their way down from a bracing and leg-stetching stroll over the Taoyuan Valley Grasslands.
A full route guide for Taoyuan Valley Trail with transportation information and a GPX file can be found here.
Yinhe Waterfall and Temple
A charming and easily accessible walk in New Taipei’s Xindian District, which takes in a temple behind a waterfall and panoramic views from Taipei’s Maokong gondola. With a couple of route options, this walk is suitable for confident beginners and anyone with more experience.
A full route guide for Yinhe Cave and Waterfall Trail with transportation information and a GPX file can be found here.
Tianling Temple
The walk to Tianling Cave Temple is an easy 2.5–3 hour hike in Kaohsiung’s Alian District with a lot to offer. It includes a slot canyon, a temple, and one of Taiwan’s 100 Minor Peaks (Mount Dagang). The trail is well-maintained and can be done by people of all fitness levels.
A full route guide for Tianling Cave Temple Trail with transportation information and a GPX file can be found here.
Guanyin and Tudi Gong Temples on Keelung Islet
This is a 3km hike on Northern Taiwan’s Keelung Islet that takes about four hours to complete (including the boat journey to the island). The hike is easy, but the ticketing logistics are a bit tricky. One of the highlights of the hike is the pair of cave temples, one dedicated to Tudigong and the other to Guanyin, and both home to broody geckos.
A full route guide for exploring Keelung Islet with permit and boat information and a GPX file can be found here.
Di Cang Wang’s Cave in Beiguan Tidal Park
Located on the oceanward-facing edge of Beiguan Tidal Park on Taiwan’s northeastern coast is a cave temple dedicated to Di Cang Wang, a bodhisattva associated with the realm of hell. The cave temple is a cool and refreshing place to escape the sun. You can visit it on a short stroll around the park, or else as part of the much longer Tamsui-Kavalan Trails walk.
A full route guide for the section the Tamsui-Kavalan Trails that passes the tidal park can be found here.
Liao Tian-ding’s Cave
Located in a remote part of Bali District, the cave shrine of Liao Tian-ding is a popular destination for history buffs and hikers. The shrine commemorates Liao Tian-ding, a Taiwanese folk hero who was known for stealing from the wealthy and giving to the poor. This one is more of a shrine than a temple, but it’s an important part of Taiwan’s history, so why not include it?
A full route guide for the walk to Liao Tian-ding’s hideout with a GPX file can be found here.
Taiwan Trails and Tales 