5 Must-visit temples in Hong Kong for a peaceful getaway

Hong Kong is renowned for its fast-paced lifestyle and towering skyscrapers, but nestled in the midst of this metropolis are a number of peaceful temples. If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, or if you have longed for nature and the tranquility that comes from temples after being confined to your home for so long, here are five must-visit temples in Hong Kong to satisfy your zen cravings. Each one offers a unique experience, so be sure to check them all out.

1.   Man Mo Temple

This temple, which is one of the most well-known in Hong Kong, was designated a Grade One Historical Building by the Hong Kong Antiquities Advisory Board in 1994.

It was built to honor King Emperor Man and Holy King Emperor Kwan, two gods who were once human and were renowned for their traditional craftsmanship. The God of Literature and the God of Martial Arts are worshipped here.

2.   The Big Buddha

The 268-step climb to Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island, leads you to one of the world’s biggest outdoor-seated Buddha statues.

The Tian Tan Giant Buddha has stood as a symbol of stability of Hong Kong, prosperity of China, and peace on Earth. This bronze statue on Mount Muk Yue took 12 years to create.

3.   Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden

At this tranquil retreat in the bustling city center of Hong Kong, you’ll find chanting nuns and finely-trimmed, well-pruned bonsai plants.

With its impressive architecture designed to bring you back to the days of the Tang Dynasty, this is the first structure in Hong Kong to be constructed without a single nail, and it’s stunning!

Adjacent to the lotus ponds and carefully pruned bonsai trees is the Nan Lian Garden, a 3.5-hectare public park with lovely scenery.

This magnificent garden, which features pagodas, pavilions, bridges, rock formations, and a man-made waterfall, also includes a vegetarian restaurant and tea house to the side.

4.   Wong Tai Sin Temple

Are you interested in learning about other religions? Wong Tai Sin Temple is the ideal location for you if you’re looking to learn more about various faiths. This temple houses Buddhists, Taoists, and Confucians, and it’s well-known for helping believers fulfill their wishes.

Despite its status as one of the busiest temples in Hong Kong, people still flock to see it because of its reputation as one of the luckiest.

5.   Sha Tin Che Kung Temple

The Temple of Che Kung is dedicated to General Che, a Southern Song dynasty military commander. His worshippers come here to offer respect for his loyalty and bravery during the Southern Song dynasty.

One of the temples flocked by people on the second day of the Lunar New Year, visitors come here to pray for good fortune and protection for the coming year.

Visiting temples isn’t just all about asking for good luck. It is also a symbol of wanting to feel relieved and hopeful that better days are ahead.

Consider including these must-visit temples in Hong Kong in your travel bucket list when you plan your trip to the city. It is where you can immerse yourself in nature and peaceful temples, and have positive energy to relax your mind.

All images: credit to Hong Kong Tourism Board

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