Temple of Lu Ban, the Master Craftsman

Temple of Lu Ban, the Master Craftsman

The Temple of Lu Ban, also known as Lu Ban Temple, is located at 15 Tsing Lin Terrace, Sai Wan. It is the only temple in Hong Kong Island dedicated to Lu Ban and is currently listed as a Grade I historic building in Hong Kong. Built in the 10th year of the Guangxu reign during the Qing Dynasty (1884), the two-courtyard, non-courtyard-style structure enshrines Lu Ban, the patron saint of the construction trades. The temple features numerous exquisitely crafted protective walls as well as a large number of carved statues, reliefs, and murals. Adjacent to it (at 16–17 Tsing Lin Terrace) is the headquarters of the Kwong Yuet Tong Association, which is now listed as a Grade III historic building in Hong Kong.

The Lu Ban enshrined in the temple, also known as Gongshu Ban, was a native of the State of Lu during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods. Skilled in carpentry, he was posthumously revered as the patron saint of carpenters. The annual birthday of Lu Ban, celebrated on the 13th day of the sixth lunar month, is marked by grand ceremonies organized by the temple’s management committee. Many workers and companies from the construction trades visit the temple to pay homage to their patron saint. In the past, the Kwong Yuet Tong, which managed the temple, would distribute meals on that day, though this later changed to meal vouchers. The majority of worshippers at the temple are construction workers, who pray to Lu Ban—their industry’s saint—for blessings, safety, and success in their work. Every year on the 13th day of the sixth lunar month, devotees celebrate the birthday of Lu Ban, the Master Craftsman.

Lo Pan Temple

Must-visit reason: The only temple in Hong Kong Island dedicated to Lu Ban