Cebu Taoist Temple | Exploring the Philippines

The colorful and zenful Taoist Temple located in the Beverly Hills development of Cebu City, was a peaceful getaway while visiting the islands where my family hails from. I decided on my last trip to Cebu to visit both historical, and religious sites that I felt compelled to. I do not belong to the Taoist faith, but I do acknowledge several of its teachings. In truth, I do not belong to any religion or faith so when I travel to places of worship, I can visit objectively and with an open mind.

While strolling the hilly grounds of the temple, I felt a very relaxed energy amongst the statues and Chinese architecture. At one point, I had lit a candle in one of the temples in order to meditate on gratitude, and protection while on the trip. I am a Certified Meditation Practitioner, and I believe in the power of quieting the mind in meditation. I felt gratitude towards the Universe that I was given the opportunity to do so, while visiting this temple.

Taoism is the religion that follows the teachings of Lao Zi, an ancient Chinese philosopher. I suppose I felt a little connection to this temple due to several of my spiritual truths, as well as having a small amount of Chinese DNA, and my family originating from Cebu. For the record, I was not brought up in Taoism. As with the majority of Filipinos, I was brought up Catholic but I dropped the ideals of religion 30 years ago.

One ritual amongst Taoist devotees is done on Wednesdays and Sundays, and is the climbing of its 81 steps to light joss sticks and have monks read their fortunes. Each step representing the 81 chapters of the Taoism scriptures. This is a working temple, so please respect the schedules of their rituals upon visitation.

The Cebu Taoist Temple is open to the public, to both believers and non-believers alike. It was built in 1972 by the substantial Filipino-Chinese community of Cebu. The temple is constructed 360 feet above sea level, and has beautiful bay views. It has an impressive towering construction, built on multi-tiers within the affluent hills of Cebu City.

Getting to the Taoist Temple:

The temple is located inside the Beverly Hills, a private subdivision in Cebu City. Only cabs and private vehicles are allowed inside. If you cannot arrange a private car or cab, you can hire a habal-habal (motorbike driver) from the J.Y. Square. Make sure to tell the driver to drop you off at the temple entrance.

As for us, we booked a private city tour with our own personal guide. This is another option as well as the most convenient in my opinion. There are several legitimate tours and guides that you can find online or through your hotel in Cebu.

As with any spiritual place or religious site, please be respectful with how you carry yourself. Hats off while entering a temple, no running around, no loud chatter, and please dress modestly.