Roger Gary
Tucked away within the cosmopolitan confines of Hong Kong lies some of Asia's most picturesque Chinese temples. Here is a list of the city's must-visit Chinese religious points of interest.
As one of Hong Kong's primary religious institutions no visit to the island nation would be complete without a stopover at this iconic space dedicated to the memory of a celebrated monk. As a Buddhist and Taoist institution the venue is also highlights Confucian teachings to the spiritually inclined.
One of the more unusual Chinese temples in the country the Lo Pan Temple is a shrine devoted to the patron saint of carpenters and construction workers and is the only such venue in the island
Serving as an example of a purpose built temple the Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin was constructed to stop a health epidemic from plaguing the nation.
Built during the 18th century the Hau Wong Temple is devoted to the memory of a faithful citizen of the island of Hong Kong.
As one of the city's most popular Chinese temples the Ching Chung Koon is no ordinary Taoist institution in Hong Kong. Housing countless imperial artefacts within its confines the compound serves as a historic as well as a religious point of interest for the masses.
Occupying pride of place in Shau Kei Wan the Tin Hau Temple is dedicated to the worship of the patron deity of seafaring. As one of the smaller Chinese temples in the country the shrine is located on the eastern quarter of the island.
Located in the bustling downtown area of the city the Man Mo Temple is one of the more visible Chinese temples in Hong Kong. With the pervading smell of massive incense coils scenting the air the tranquil shrine offers visitors a welcome respite from the cosmopolitan confines surrounding the temple.
Another patron saint to seafaring fishermen the Tam Kung Temple is another temple frequented by local fishermen to secure a safe journey home.
Regarded as one of the city's most scenic Chinese temple complexes the Chi Lin Nunnery and the Nan Lian Garden that surrounds it is another must-visit highlight that is not just devoted to Buddhist pilgrims. Housing a large number of exquisite and rare Buddhist artefacts the venue known for its stunning architectural features and lotus ponds is one of the most picturesque corners of the city.
Serving as a guarding light protecting the Hong Kong cities the Shing Wong Temple is dedicated to the guardian saint of townships in the Chinese religious pantheon.
A stunning monastery of iconic stature the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery is the pride and joy of Lantau Island's religious landscape. Known for the massive Buddha statue that occupies its confines the architecturally magnificent setting must be seen to be believed. Visitors based at the Cosmopolitan Hotel Hong Kong or any other Wan Chai hotel Hong Kong counts among its conveniently located rests will be within close range of the venue.
Dedicated to the worship of the deity of the same name the Golden Flower Shrine is a venue pilgrims flock to gain blessings for a long line of descendents and a successful family life.
