We’re heading off to the temple this week for 5. Located in the Zhongshan district of Taipei is the Xingtian temple which is dedicated to Guangong, the red-faced general who became a god and is looked upon as both the God of War and of Business. Unlike a lot of the more famous temples in Taiwan, this is a fairly recent building, dating back to 1967.  What it lacks in age, it makes up for in importance, being one of the cities busiest temples with upwards of 10 000 visitors a day.  Separating it from other temples is the fact that the burning of ghost money, commercial activities and opera performances are prohibited within the temple. It is however a popular location for fortune telling and leaving offerings.  Also notable are the royal blue-robed temple attendants and these are what we’re focusing on today. These people read scriptures, chant, distribute incense, bestow blessings and general look after everything. They also make great subjects for photography, so without further ado, here they are.

Blue-robed temple officials at Xingtian Temple, Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China ROC)

Blue-robed temple officials at Xingtian Temple, Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China ROC)

Blue-robed temple officials at Xingtian Temple, Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China ROC)

Blue-robed temple officials at Xingtian Temple, Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China ROC)

Blue-robed temple officials at Xingtian Temple, Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China ROC)

All photos were taken with a Canon 5D Mark II and 70-200mm lens.

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