New Taipei Food: Traditional Cut Noodles at Luzhou

Luzhou: Must visit Yonglian Temple

Yonglian Temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, and its exterior is magnificent and spectacular.

Luzhou is a blend of old and new communities, reminiscent of smaller towns like Tainan, where you can escape the hustle and bustle. Just as many European cities develop around a central church, traditional Chinese markets often revolve around temples. The most famous temple in Luzhou is Yonglian Temple （蘆洲湧蓮寺） , dedicated to the Guanyin Bodhisattva. Established in 1862, the temple has undergone several renovations, with the current structure completed in 1997, boasting grand architecture.

Built according to the specifications of a traditional Buddhist temple, the front of the temple features a mountain gate, a pond, and a front hall.

The temple has a rich history, housing two significant Guanyin statues. The “Nanhai Yuandong Guanyin” statue, originating from Putuo Mountain, arrived in Luzhou after a storm diverted its journey. Another notable statue, the “Golden Guanyin,” is crafted from gold equivalent to ten thousand taels, reflecting the devotion of worshippers who come to express their gratitude.

After nightfall, the streets next to the temple transform into a bustling night market.

Yonglian Temple

Address: No. 96, Desheng St, Luzhou District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 247

Phone: +886-2-2281-8642

Opening Hours ： 07:00—22:00

Website: https://temple.lujou.com.tw

Tasting Traditional Cut Noodles

While temple visits typically occur during the day, the area around Yonglian Temple transforms into a vibrant night market, known as the Luzhou Temple Night Market . Here, you’ll find Zhou Wuzhu Cut Noodles （ 周烏豬切仔麵） , reputed to be the birthplace of this dish. While many in Hong Kong people are familiar with Tainan’s “Dan Zai Noodles,” “Cut Noodles” （ correctly written as 「摵仔麵」） remains less known.

Cut Noodles and Dan Zai Noodles can be seen as regional cousins; both feature clear broth and chewy noodles, but their toppings differ. Cut Noodles are more subtly flavored, with crispy fried shallots as the star ingredient. The quality of the shallots can make or break the dish, alongside a sweet, clear broth.

Luzhou is known as the home of Cut Noodles, boasting the highest density of noodle shops in Taiwan. One of the popular spots is Tian Ding Cut Noodles , which has a vibrant atmosphere and serves well-made fried shallots, sweet broth, and fresh vegetables. The noodles resemble Hong Kong’s cart noodles, allowing you to customize your dish with various pork options.

Tian Ding Cut Noodles has gained popularity among many locals.

The signature Three-Layer Pork is a highlight, featuring tender belly pork served with cilantro and chili garlic sauce, simple yet delicious. For offal lovers, options include pig liver, heart, tongue, and intestines, all prepared to perfection. A standout item is the Bone Meat , which consists of soft bones with attached meat, providing a delightful texture.

Tian Ding Cut Noodles is known for its signature soup noodles, and the cut noodles is also available dry. Bone Meat which consists of soft bones with attached meat.

To thrive in Luzhou’s competitive Cut Noodles scene, a restaurant must stand out. If you find yourself in Luzhou, don’t hesitate to try several shops; comparing can be part of the joy of deep travel.

Tian Ding Cut Noodles

Address: 247 No. 22, Desheng Street, Luzhou District, New Taipei City, Taiwan (1F)

Phone: +886-2-2288-2386

Opening Hours: 08:00-23:00( Monday to Friday),07:00-23:00(Saturday to Sunday), close on Tuesday