The Shilin Shennong Temple marks the original centre of the old Shilin settlement, around which the famous night market first grew. Founded in the 18th century and rebuilt several times, it is dedicated chiefly to Shennong, the legendary Divine Farmer and god of agriculture and medicine, alongside Mazu and other deities.
It is an active neighbourhood temple rather than a tourist showpiece, with good stone and wood carving and a steady stream of worshippers. A short walk north of the modern night-market area for anyone curious about Shilin's older core.