Wong Tai Sin Temple
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Wong Tai Sin - by Chong Fat public domain
Description
Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of Hong Kong's busiest shrines - it is dedicated to its namesake, or the Great Immortal Wong. This Taoist temple is designed strictly in accordance with Fengshui and sports a traditional architecture with red pillars, a gold roof, latticework, multi-coloured carvings and three memorial arches. The 5 Fengshui elements are represented by the Feiying Platform (metal), the Scripture Hall (wood), the Jade Pool (water), the Yuxiang Pavilion (fire) and the Screen Wall (earth). Most of the visitors follow a practice called "kau chim" that involves a soothsayer interpreting one's fortune.
Access & Transport
The temple is located just north of the Wong Tai Sin MTR station (on the Kwun Tung line) which is geographically located between Kowloon City / Kai Tak and the Lion Rock. There are also several bus services plying Lung Cheung rd, a 5mins walks to the temple.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend reading a little bit about the history of the temple and "kau chim" before or during your visit to get the most out of it. This makes a good combination with the Nan Lian Garden which is a 15 mins walk or a short bus ride away.
Environmental & Social
We deem this to be neutral from an environmental standpoint. Part of the city's cultural and architectural heritages.
Conclusion
Wong Tai Sin is without doubt one of the most interesting temples in the city. Not a must do if you have already seen other ones but you will learn a few things about Feng Shui and Chinese religious culture when visiting
Key positive
Witness local religious customs
Very easy to access and free (unless you make an offering)
Key negative
Can be too busy at times
The neighbourhood is not very attractive
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions. Visitors with mobility issues may struggle in the not-always-so-polite human traffic.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:1h
Monday08:00 - 16:30
Tuesday08:00 - 16:30
Wednesday08:00 - 16:30
Thursday08:00 - 16:30
Friday08:00 - 16:30
Saturday08:00 - 16:30
Sunday08:00 - 16:30