Taoist temple

Although its scale cannot be compared to the Buddhist monasteries, their form and pattern are similar, including the courtyard-like layout, the hall-like architecture, and the enshrining statues.

The official Taoist temple has magnificent buildings and different offerings, with halls, statues, gardens, and even industries.

Taoists are asked to cultivate virtues, and believe monasticism can help them get rid of hardship and troubles and lead to a peaceful life.

To be far away from the noisy and busy cities, most Taoist temples are built in deep forests to practice monasticism.

Inspired by Zen Buddhism, Taoism also gradually shifted from the Tang Dynasty to emphasize inner purification and inaction and heavy metaphysics.

Generally, regardless of age, gender, or duration of monasticism, any Taoist who can reside in it has the right to be elected as the top leader.

There is a clear division of labor in the temple, commonly known as the “three masters, five masters, and eighteen heads,” who are in charge of sutra teaching, merit-making, security, fasting, staff placement, self-support, cooking, and other matters.

After having a master, if an adherent meets a better Taoist priest, they can worship “teacher” again, and don't have to change their descent.