Kaiyuan Temple is a large-scale Buddhist temple and the first official temple, holding an important place in Taiwanese Buddhism. Originally named Beiyuan Pavilion, it was built during the Zheng dynasty period. It served as the residence of Zheng Jing upon his arrival in Taiwan and also as the place where his mother spent her later years. It was not until the Kangxi era that it was rebuilt as a Buddhist temple, becoming the largest Buddhist temple in Taiwan at the time. After more than 300 years of renovations and restorations, Kaiyuan Temple still retains the traditional Buddhist monastery layout, which is rare among temples in Taiwan. It also preserves many historical relics from the Ming-Zheng period, making it one of the best places to study the Zheng family history. The temple's layout exudes a solemn and steady atmosphere, evoking the sacredness of the Buddhist temple. The main buildings, arranged in a courtyard layout, include the Three Rivers Gate, Maitreya Hall, the Great Hero Hall, and the Bodhisattva Hall, making it one of the largest level-two historical sites in Tainan. Many of the temple's painted works were created by the master artist Cai Caoru, whose detailed and exquisite techniques can be seen in the murals. Upon close inspection, visitors will notice many delicate woodcrafts, with motifs of flowers, birds, dragons, and phoenixes, all representing auspicious symbols. A visit to Kaiyuan Temple not only offers a chance to reflect on history but also allows one to appreciate the influence of religion and art.

Attraction Information:

Phone: +886-6-2374035; +886-6-2375635

Address: No. 89, Beiyuan Street, North District, Tainan City

Opening Hours: 4:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Transportation Information:

【Public Transport】

1. From Tainan Railway Station (Front Station), take the 5 bus towards Yanxing. Get off at the Kaiyuan Station, cross the road, and walk 200 meters along Beiyuan Street.

2. From Tainan Railway Station (Front Station), take the Hsingnan Bus (route to Xinhua → Zuozhen → Nansi → Yujing). Get off at the Kaiyuan Station, cross the road, and walk 200 meters along Beiyuan Street.

【Driving】

1. From National Highway 1 (Southbound), exit at Yongkang Interchange → drive straight towards Tainan → turn left at Zhonghua Road, pass Chi Mei Hospital and cross the overpass → continue for about 500 meters, then turn right onto Zhongshan South Road, connecting to Kaiyuan Road → at "Mingjia Beauty Boutique," turn right onto Beiyuan Street and walk 200 meters.

2. From National Highway 1 (Northbound), exit at Rende Interchange → drive straight towards Tainan → turn right at Zhonghua East Road, pass the Houjia Circle → continue for about 1500 meters, then turn left onto Zhongshan South Road, connecting to Kaiyuan Road → at "Mingjia Beauty Boutique," turn right onto Beiyuan Street and walk 200 meters.