Guide to Hong Kong: Traditions and Spirituality
A series of stories, recommendations and tips on Hong Kong from people in the know. Explore our city based on the travel experiences that interest you and get itineraries for off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.
It won’t take you long to spot manifestations of Hong Kong’s deeply spiritual nature. You’ll find places of worship quietly nestled down busy streets; shop fronts adorned with offerings to the gods to ensure good luck and fortune; and worshippers burning paper offerings and joss sticks on the side of the road. Although the city is underpinned by some of these spiritual traditions, it’s also a multicultural home to Buddhists, Taoists, Confucians, Muslims, Catholics and more besides.
Maritime Worshippers
Hong Kong’s important relationship with its harbor is evident in the sheer number of temples devoted to Tin Hau, the goddess of the sea. Fishermen and sailors throughout the centuries have worshipped her for protection in temples right on the waterfront. The oldest and largest of these is Tin Hau Temple in Joss House Bay, Sai Kung, which was built in 1266 and is now a Grade I historical building.
Temple Time
The Chinese culture is rooted in superstitions and you’ll often see these acted out in daily life. During the annual Ching Ming Festival or on the anniversary of a relative’s death, people will burn offerings over a small fire to “send” to their loved ones in the afterlife and bestow blessings on the living. Many of these ancient beliefs are tied to Chinese New Year, when locals flock to temples looking for good fortune.
Religious Offerings
As a multicultural city with a tapestried history, there are numerous places of worship for other religions around Hong Kong. St. Paul’s Church in Central is a prominent Anglican church that was established in 1911. Not much further away is the Jamia Mosque, which can be reached by a quick journey on the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator. Built in 1849 in a traditional Islamic style, it was then renovated and expanded in 1915.
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