Joanna James
Kowloon may be known for its cosmopolitan urban feel, but this lively metropolis also offers insights into local culture which can be experienced by visiting these local temples.
A well-known temple amongst locals who come here in order to make their wishes come true, the Wong Tai Sin Temple is well worth a visit. This temple, in fact, honours three religions namely Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism and features fascinating structures and design elements. The temple was built to honour the famed monk, Wong Tai Sin who is believed to have become a deity. The site where one can find a revered portrait of the monk has become a place where devotees come to offer prayers and request for guidance and good fortune. The Yuk Yik Fountain, Bronze Pavilion, Three Saints Hall, Good Wish Garden and the Confucian Hall are among the notable highlights here. The temple is close to the MTR Wong Tai Sin Station and within easy reach of centrally located hotels in Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Dating back to the mid 19th century, the Hung Shing Temple was built to honour the deity who is believed to offer protection for those at sea. While it did start off as an alter that was constructed close to the shore, today this temple can be found near Tai Wong Street East, around 5 minutes from Dorsett Mongkok, Hong Kong. Urban Kowloon's sole Hung Shing temple, this sacred site features a Grade III historic building and is an active temple that draws local devotees to this day.
A temple built in honour of a deity revered by those whose life and livelihood depends on the sea, the Tin Hau Temple is yet another sacred site that provides an enriching insight into local culture. The Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau is worshipped here and this is yet another example of a temple that was originally built by the water but now with development, has been pushed more inland. Devotees still come here to worship Tin Hau and those planning to visit this sacred site will find it within reach of the MTR Yau Ma Tei Station.
This fascinating temple has in fact, two varying legends associated with it. In one tale, the temple is said to be named after a Chinese general who during the Song dynasty came to the aid of the emperor by providing a safe haven in Kowloon and thereby saving him from invading forces. Another legend, however, states that the temple is actually to commemorate the act of a local who played a pivotal role in helping to cure the emperor who was suffering from a particular illness. The temple itself offers much to discover those visiting its hallowed grounds; among the highlights, one can see here are an incense burner made from iron, Chinese calligraphy, an image of Hau Wong (the general) and a garden area which features figurines in vivid colours.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
