Staying in a Buddhist Monastery
In Taiwan there is a mountain called Lion's Head, which is dotted with
Buddhist and Taoist temples and
monasteries, some of which offer overnight accommodations. You can take a
train from Taipei to
Hsinchu, and from there get a ride to the foot of the mountain. There are
no roads on the mountain
(in 1982 there weren't -- I can't speak for now), only steep cobblestone and
dirt foot paths. The paths
lead to the various temples where the nuns and monks welcome you and offer
food and in some,
lodging. You are expected to leave a donation. If you want to stay a few
days you can help them work
in the gardens. All the food is vegetarian. You can attend their prayer
services if you wish. It was
incredibly peaceful there and the people were very kind. I recommend it to
anyone who is going to
Taiwan.
Monica
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