Night trip to the ovens in New Taipei, Taiwan

#ChristmasGreatPlaces2024 As night falls, the oven land in Zhonghe, New Taipei City exudes a mysterious and warm atmosphere. As a famous prayer spot in northern Taiwan, the Bake Furnace is not only a prosperous place for the incense it enshrines, but also a quiet haven in the hearts of countless tourists because of the lights at night and the surrounding scenery. As you step into the mountain path, the lanterns along the way shine with soft orange light, like stars guiding tourists. The green mountain forest on the side is illuminated by the lights, and the shadows of the layers of trees are gently swaying in the night wind. The occasional chirping of insects and birds adds a touch of life to the night. In the tranquility, the atmosphere of the oven is not lonely, but full of the artistic conception of harmonious coexistence between man and nature. Slowly going up the steps, the Tudigong Temple becomes clearer and clearer. Outside the temple, a row of brilliant golden dragon pillars come into view. They are exquisitely carved, majestic and friendly. Upon entering, the offerings on the table are piled high, incense is lingering, and the figures of believers kneeling devoutly and the whispers of prayers intertwined into a picture full of faith. The most shocking thing is the viewing platform next to the temple. Standing on the platform, the lights of the Taipei Basin are shining brightly at night, like a river of stars falling into the world. The lights of high-rise buildings contrast with the mountains in the distance. This scene where prosperity and nature coexist seems to remind people to be grateful and awe-inspiring. The night breeze blows gently, and the air is mixed with the faint fragrance of wood and the freshness of mountain vegetation, making people feel clear. On the way back, I met several pilgrims holding lanterns and laughing and talking about their prayers and harvests. The oven is not only a place to make wishes, but also a spiritual habitat for busy urbanites. Here, the lights illuminate the tranquility of the night and ignite the hope and strength in people's hearts. It was late at night, and when I left the oven, I looked back and saw that the temple was still brightly lit, like a bright pearl in the forest. Perhaps, it is the tranquility and warmth of the night that makes Ovenland a place of prayer that everyone wants to visit again.