The Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of Hong Kong's busiest and most interesting temples. Not exactly in a central location but it can be very easily reached with the convenient MTR stop right next to it and is certainly worth the short trek.
It is a very colorful temple and exemplifies the typical Chinese style with the guarding lions at the entrance, the pagoda style roofs, incense urns, plenty of lanterns and beautfifully decorated pillars.
Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of the most colorful temples in Hong Kong
Beautiful lattice works decorate every corner of this temple
Guardian Lions stand side by side the Entrance
Check out the Lanterns and intricate roof work
And the delicately crafted Roof Guardians
The crane is a symbol of a soaring spirit and lasting health
This temple is quite active and a great place to observe the old traditions in the context of modern life in Hong Kong.
Worshipers from many religions come to pay respects
As is typical from Hong Kong religion practices, this temple attracts worshippers from several different faiths, buddhism, daoism, confucianism...
People from all walks of life frequent the temple. You can expect to see anyone from elders to well-heeled business people, housewifes, students, retirees... come to pay respects to this god who helps you stay fit or bring back health to the sick.
Burning of incense is used to purify the surroundings
According to the legend, Wong Tai Sin was a humble sheperd who was taught by an immortal when he was 15 to make a herbal potion which could cure all illnesses and help you stay healthy. A temple to worship him was opened in 1915 when an image of the god was brought from Mainland China to Hong Kong. The original temple was in Wanchai but later moved to this location in 1921.
Surrounding the main temple are many smaller shrines, beautiful gardens and pavillions, be sure to make some time to walk around.
Wong Tai Sin is surrounded by high rise housing estates
Guardians of the temple by the main entrance
Main Entrance Gate
Many smaller temples in the complex
Very intricate and lavish decorations
Smaller temples and incense urns
The hexagonal Unicorn Hall with carved window and door works
Many sculptures and statues throughout...
Beautiful pavillions in the gardens...
Truly one of the most colorful Hong Kong Temples...
When to Visit the Wong Tai Sin Temple?
The temple is open from early in the morning until 5:30 p.m.
Busiest times of the year are around the Chinese New Year (January or February) and Wong Tai Sin's Birthday on the 23rd day of the 8th Lunar Month (usually in September).
How to get to Wong Tai Sin Temple?
Easy... Take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin station, exit B2, temple is just next door to the station, follow the signs (or the crowds) you will see first the vendors right outside the main gate to the temple with their colorful offerings.
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