Chen Dexing Ancestral Hall

Chen Dexing Ancestral Hall is the main ancestral hall of the Chen clan in the Taipei area, designed and built by the renowned Taiwanese master craftsman Chen Ying-bin. Its front hall features a double-eaved hip-and-gable roof, exquisite wooden structures and dougong brackets, and gracefully flowing eaves and ridge lines, possessing high artistic value. The stone carved twin-dragon pillars in the front hall are considered one of the earliest examples of the 'one pillar, two dragons' motif in modern Taiwan, profoundly influencing the construction of later temples. Inside the main hall, the altar is massive, rich in wood carvings, and distinguished by its intricately carved railings. The pewter ritual implements and immortal candle holders in front of the altar are well-preserved, exquisitely crafted, and rare examples in Taiwan. Currently, besides serving as the Chen clan's ancestral hall, it is also used as a kindergarten on weekdays and is very well-maintained. It also received the Conservation Contribution Award at the 3rd National Cultural Heritage Preservation Awards from the Ministry of Culture in 2014, making it well worth a visit. After visiting Chen Dexing Ancestral Hall, you can also explore the nearby Ningxia Night Market, which is brimming with strong Taiwanese flavors! (Some content excerpted from the Taipei City Department of Cultural Affairs website)