TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Yunlin Beigang Chaotian Temple led as Taiwan's most-visited religious site in 2023, with over 6.81 million visits from January to September, according to data from the Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC).
Close behind, Yunlin Beigang Wude Temple ranked second, welcoming more than 6.69 million visitors. Nankunshen Daitian Temple secured the third spot, with over 5.46 million visitors, the ministry said.
In contrast, Miaoli Baishatun Gongtian Temple claimed the sixth spot, drawing over 3.2 million visits. Taichung Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, renowned for worshipping the sea goddess Mazu, recorded approximately 1.17 million visits and landed at the eighth spot.
However, despite significant crowds during holidays and festivals, some prominent temples are not included in the Tourism Bureau's recreational site list.
The idea of installing visitor counters in temples has been discussed but remains unpractical due to multiple entrance points. This situation raises questions about the Tourism Bureau's method of calculating visitor statistics.
The Tourism Bureau clarified that visitor data is supplied by local governments, highlighting an ongoing collaboration to monitor tourism activity at these religious and cultural attractions.