Day 1: Longshan Temple

The Longshan Temple becomes captivating even before stepping inside its golden gates. On the outside it is decorated with waterfalls and fountains, while its insides reveal the marvelous architecture and designs. But perhaps most importantly, the spiritual bonding is what draws countless visitors each and every day.

The first thing we noticed as we walked through the gates was the gentle waft of the incense stick's aroma, and soon we lit up seven sticks of our own. As we passed by each god's shrine, we said a small prayer and stuck a single stick into a nearby pit of fire as an offering. The gods represented a myriad of topics, including health, love, and test-taking aptitude.

An assortment of charms were available for purchase, granting desirable characteristics such as longevity or good health. In order to "activate" them, they had to be swung over a pit of fire three times.

The trip to Longshan Temple was incredibly interesting, providing all of the group members with newfound insight on religious practices in Taiwan culture. Pictures may be worth a thousand words, but no picture can match the exhilaration of a first hand experience.