Yesterday we went to LuKang Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Taiwan. It was originally build in the 17th century and then moved to its current position in 1725 (according to Wiki).
It consists of a few main buildings. The aspect that makes this temple special is that it has a lot of old wood and stone work. To understand this, one should consider that during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, nearly all wooden resources were stripped and sent to Japan for their temples and building. Even after WWII, Taiwan was still lacking a decent wood supply. Hence, most modern era temples are made of concrete, but in a way that looks wooden. So what appears to be wooden beams are painted concrete upon inspection.
A lot of the ceiling work and doors are also wooden. I'm not sure if they are the original or a repaired version, no details on this. But there are a few really old wooden works that stand out.
I prefer black and white photographs, but in this case with the ancient wood, I chose to leave the photo in color format so one can appreciate the wear and tear.
There are also blocked off windows and doors. So some places are restricted from the public, but I feel it makes it even more interesting.
This was quite fascinating. It was a Buddhist mantra written on a blocked window, but the script is so worn that I couldn't read it. Anyway, the choice of words are quite antiquated and difficult to understand.
This is one of the bells still hanging outside of the temple. They have a bigger, older one. Unfortunately, it is under glass for protection. A wise choice, but for photographers, a nightmare.
Here is the "fire well" (not sure of the translation) for "ghost money". Taiwan has an interesting mix of Buddhist and Taoist beliefs. So most temples combine both religions. This is fascinating for me because they both have such different views of the afterlife. Buddhism is reincarnation and Taoism is a very real hell similar to the pre-Christian Sheol or Hades. Money and gifts can be burnt and the spirits that it is intended for get it.
This door is probably from the 1935 renovation seeing how the bricks are in good shape and evenly made.
Another modern addition. A horned dragon. There wasn't anyone to ask the meaning. However, I thought it was worth noting. Here's a link for wiki on LuKang Temple if you are interested.
We also visited LuKang old street, but that's another set of photos.
**all photos are taken by me with IPhone 14