The top 7 temples in Hong Kong to visit
Whether you're seeking blessings, paying homage to ancestors or just learning more about the culture, there are plenty of temples worth a visit in Hong Kong.
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With over 600 of these serene sanctuaries peppered throughout Hong Kong, temples have been blending seamlessly for years into the urban hustle and rural hills alike. Some have even become popular tourist attractions thanks to their fascinating history and intricate architectural designs. Whether you're seeking blessings, paying homage to ancestors or just learning more about the culture, these spots offer a spiritual escape and culturally-rich experience. So read on for some top picks for temples to visit in Hong Kong.
Man Mo Temple
As you stroll along Sheung Wan’s Hollywood Road, you'll come across the legendary Man Mo Temple – one of the neighborhood’s most renowned landmarks. Built between 1847 and 1862, this ancient marvel, a declared national monument, pays homage to the gods of literature and war, Man Cheong and Mo Tai, amid swirling incense clouds and intricate architecture. Alongside the main temple, you'll discover Lit Shing Kung for celestial worship and Kung Sor, once a hub for community gatherings. Tucked away near Hollywood and Cat Street’s antique shops, this temple stands as a timeless sanctuary, drawing both tourists and locals seeking solace amid the urban chaos.
Quick facts
- Where – 124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan
- When – Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2540 0350
- Website
- More information
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Renowned for its ability to grant worshippers' wishes, Wong Tai Sin Temple is a hotspot in Kowloon for those seeking luck and blessings. With its ornate Chinese architectural marvels, including red pillars, a gold-adorned roof, intricate carvings and a tranquil garden, it's like stepping into another world far away from the city's hustle. During Lunar New Year, locals crowd in to light incense and have their fortunes told. Dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, a revered monk from ancient times, this temple is a melting pot of Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, all wrapped up in one serene space.
Quick facts
- Where – 2 Chuk Yuen Road, Chuk Un, Kowloon
- When – Monday to Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2327 8141
- Website
- More information
Po Lin Monastery
Surrounded by the lush greenery of Lantau Island, Po Lin Monastery is a tranquil oasis boasting an impressive 34-meter bronze Buddha statue overseeing the landscape with serene majesty. Founded over a century ago by a trio of wandering monks, this place is steeped in history and spirituality. Inside, you'll find intricate Buddhist artwork adorning the halls, including three bronze Buddhas representing past, present and future. After soaking in the serenity, refuel at the on-site vegetarian restaurant. It's the perfect spot to recharge before continuing your exploration.
Quick facts
- Where – Ngong Ping Plateau, Lantau Island
- When – Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2985 5248
- Website
- More information
Chi Lin Nunnery
Rebuilt in the style of the Tang Dynasty, Chi Lin Nunnery exudes an air of timeless elegance with its graceful wooden architecture and tranquil lotus ponds. Originally established as a retreat for Buddhist nuns in 1934, the nunnery underwent a transformation in the 1990s, embracing the rich heritage of Tang dynasty design. Wander through its halls and courtyards to discover a collection of treasured Buddhist relics and statues, including the revered Sakyamuni Buddha and Kwun Yum, the goddess of mercy. But what truly sets Chi Lin Nunnery apart is its innovative construction – it's crafted without a single nail, a testament to ancient craftsmanship. It's also the world's largest hand-made wooden building. And don't miss the adjacent Nan Lian Garden, where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery and serene ponds, topped off with a vegetarian feast beneath a soothing waterfall.
Quick facts
- Where – 3 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Sheung Yuen Leng
- When – Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2354 1888
- Website
- More information
Tsz Shan Monastery
Prepare to be awestruck by the grandeur of Tsz Shan Monastery, boasting the world's largest bronze statue of Kwun Yum, the goddess of mercy. Standing tall at a staggering 76 meters, this iconic figure dwarfs even the famous Big Buddha on Lantau Island. Nestled within a sprawling 500,000 square foot Tang Dynasty-style compound, you'll discover an oasis of grand halls, lush gardens and a tranquil brilliance pond. Underneath the statue, there's also the Tsz Shan Monastery Buddhist Art Museum, housing Buddhist artifacts and objects from across the globe. But due to its popularity, there's a strict limit on daily visitors, so be sure to secure your spot in advance with online booking.
Quick facts
- Where – 88 Universal Gate Road, Tai Po
- When – Monday to Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2123 8666
- Website
- Online registration
Lin Fa Kung
Swing by Lily Street on Causeway Bay for a glimpse into Tai Hang's rich history at this charming temple dedicated to Kwun Yum, the beloved goddess of mercy. Over a century old and a declared monument, the temple welcomes visitors with a stunning dragon-themed mural on the ceiling, paying tribute to the vibrant Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance during the Mid-Autumn Festival. And it's also known for its unique architecture – a front hall with a distinct half-octagonal shape and a quaint veranda flanked by western-style balustrades, offering a glimpse into the area's rich heritage.
Quick facts
- Where – Lily Street, Tai Hang, Causeway Bay
- When – Monday to Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2578 2552
- Directions – MTR - Tin Hau Station Exit B, walk along Tung Lo Wan Road for 5 minutes, continue onto Lin Fa Kung Street West
- Website
Western Monastery
For tranquility and tradition, hit up the Western Monastery in Tsuen Wan, lovingly crafted by the Hong Kong Budhi Siksa Society back in 1970. Over the years, this haven of serenity has expanded, now boasting nine magnificent structures reminiscent of a majestic Chinese palace, complete with iconic yellow tiled roofs and sweeping flying eaves. As you wander through its sacred halls, adorned with statues and scriptures dedicated to the revered Goddess of Mercy, Kwun Yum, you'll find yourself enveloped in a sense of calm, punctuated only by the soothing chants of passing monks.
Quick facts
- Where – Sam Dip Tam, Lo Wai Tsuen, Tsuen Wan, New Territories
- When – Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Phone – +852 2411 5111
- Website
- More information
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