Stay overnight at a temple / Qijin Tianhou Temple – Admire the sunset over Xizi Bay from your room

Photos and text by 943, excerpted from HowToTrip Publishing’s "Stay Overnight at a Temple"

Qijin Tianhou Temple has a long history, established in the 12th year of the Kangxi reign during the Qing Dynasty, and is also a rare national historical site in the Kaohsiung area. From the temple’s wood carvings, stone sculptures, eaves, window frames, and other architectural details, you can admire exquisite folk craftsmanship and historic artifacts of great value, such as stone steles from the Xianfeng and Tongzhi eras—it’s definitely worth a visit.



This brings good luck
The wishing pool outside Qijin Tianhou Temple is another highlight that draws visitors’ attention. The pool is home to goldfish of various sizes and all kinds of coins tossed in by visitors making wishes, making it a favorite spot for kids. Don’t forget to walk across the nearby Peace Bridge to pray for blessings and the removal of misfortune upon crossing. There’s also a small incense burner in the temple that plays the “Wealth Mantra” when you insert a coin. On the altar, you can freely take home blessed rice, incense sachets, and protective talismans for your home—all part of this very approachable Mazu temple.

This place is full of water energy
Feeling drained in the urban jungle? Recharge your water energy by the sea. Qijin is a destination packed with tourist highlights—you can take ferries, see lighthouses, eat fresh seafood, and explore historic sites, night views, starry tunnels, and even vintage tricycles or electric sunshade cars that are rare in coastal areas. Each is an attraction in its own right.



Nearby leisure routes
There are plenty of spots to relax around the temple, such as strolling through Qijin Old Street, splashing around at Qijin Beach, visiting Qihou Battery and Qihou Lighthouse, or walking through the Starry Tunnel. Rent a bike along Qijin Pedal Street, or venture a bit further to Qijin Coastal Park and Qijin Wind Turbine Park. After taking the ferry to the other side, check out exhibitions at Pier-2 Art Center, or visit the British Consulate. End your day watching the sunset at Xizi Bay. Whether you're a scenery lover, culture buff, or foodie, Qijin offers enough fun to satisfy before heading home.

Accommodation Introduction
The pilgrim building of Qijin Tianhou Temple, “Qijin Tianhou Temple Pilgrim Building,” is a modern facility tucked away in a tranquil seaside alley. It uses fireproof materials, and since all rooms face the inner courtyard, they are quiet and free from street noise, hence offering rich facilities despite the relatively low price. The moment you step out of the building, you’re greeted by the refreshing sea breeze and the golden sunset. Getting around is also convenient—nearby attractions include Qijin Sunset Trail, National Sun Yat-sen University, and 85 Sky Tower. The temple also has clean and affordable restrooms, and you can even catch a glimpse of the 85 Building from here.