Overlooking Cebu City, in the elegant Beverly Hills residential area, situated the splendid Cebu Taoist Temple. It was built in 1972 with an elevation of 300 meters above sea level; the temple is towering, multi-tiered attraction accessible by three separate winding routes.
Cebu Taoist Temple is a symbol of the city’s large influential Chinese population. It is open to worshipers and non-worshipers alike. A ritual among devotees is to pray to the gods to grant one’s wish. Ritual includes washing of hands, going inside with barefoot and then blocking two blocks of woods. If the blocks of woods are both face up, then one can continue making a wish, but if is not then it’s not yet time and one could always come back some other time.
Cebu Taoist Temple is the center of worship for Taoism. It is the religion that follows the teaching of Chinese philosopher Lao Tze. The climbing of its 81 steps (representing the 81 chapters of Taoism scriptures) and light joss sticks and have the monks read their fortune is another ritual among Taoist devotees which is done during Wednesdays and Sundays.
Cebu Taoist Temple’s entrance is a replica of the Great Wall of China. Upon entering the temple you would be able to see the giant dragon statue. The temple has a library, chapel, souvenir shop and wishing well. No wonder a lot of people come to visit the place especially during field trips.
The balconies at Cebu Taoist Temple offer a scenic view of Cebu City. The temple is accessible and you can always get there through riding a jeepney or a taxi. Taxi would cost you around Php 80.00 to Cebu Taoist Temple.