As I said in my previous post, the next one'll be something oriental. And although the Philippines was never conquered by the Chinese, ubiquitous Chinese immigrants have flocked in huge volumes and created a sub-community what is now famously known as the "Chinoy" (CHInese-piNOY). In fact, I pride in being one of these so-called 'Chinoys'... Chinese by blood, and Filipino by heart and citizenship!
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The Cebu Taoist Temple was built in 1972 by the said substantial Chinese community. Located 300 meters above sea level, this multi-tiered temple is open to the curious public where people can marvel at Taoism and its unique rituals and traditions.
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The entrance to Cebu Taoist Temple emulates the design of Great Wall of China, which righteously pays tribute to the land where Taoism originated.
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A Chinese mini-garden like those you will see when you venture into China. I should know since I've been to China before!
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My brother (in a black tee), cousins, and I posed in front of the main temple and prodigious dragon statue.
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The Chinese are fond of the mythical creature, the dragon. They say that the dragon symbolizes all positive things: prosperous wealth, great health, and good luck, and auspicious powers. So if someone ever calls you a dragon, then be proud of it!
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The peacock, or peahen, is quite antithetical to the dragon. While the dragon exudes power and authority, the peacock symbolizes integrity, positive recognition, and class. Thus, people use peacocks in their Feng Shui to show immortality against crass and uncivilness.
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Since the temple is 300 meters above sea level, it isn't surprising that you could witness a breathtaking view of downtown Cebu from the Temple's balcony! Quite a scenery!
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A closer photo of the temple and ornaments. Photographs weren't allowed near the inside of the temple, so I couldn't get more photos of the inner aesthetics.
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A seven-tier mini-replica of a typical Chinese pillar.
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And that concludes the Cebu Taoist Temple trip! However, this wasn't the only temple we visited. So expect the next stop and post to be... well, another Chinese temple! So stay tuned!
Located at:
Beverly Hills Subdivision, Lahug,
Cebu City, Philippines
I think this is the one that I've been telling you, I remember the dragon. My friends from Cebu brought us here. I'm trying to find my old pictures from this trip.
ReplyDeleteIf someone brings you to a temple in Cebu, it's almost always THE Taoist Temple. It's one of the biggest, if not the biggest, temple 'round here. Do post those old photos up on your blog :)
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