Tai Wah San Yuen Man Mo Temple

Tai Wah San Yuen Man Mo Temple

The Tai Wah San Yuen Man Mo Temple is located on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. It is one of the early Chinese temples built after the establishment of Hong Kong as a colony and was, in the early days, authorized by the British colonial government to conduct oaths and resolve disputes among Chinese people using traditional Chinese methods such as "chicken head chopping" and "burning yellow paper." The temple was designated as a statutory monument of Hong Kong on November 12, 2010.

The Man Mo Temple was first built in 1847 by Chinese compradors and landowners such as Tam Ah Choi and Lo Ah Kwai. Since 1908, it has been managed by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals. The temple is known for its flourishing incense offerings. It features golden altars around its perimeter, with shrines dedicated to the God of Literature, “Man Cheong Tai Tai,” and the God of War, “Kwan Tai Tai.” The God of Literature holds a writing brush, symbolizing literature and official success, while the God of War wields a sword, representing loyalty and martial prowess. The temple houses exquisitely cast bronze and white wax incense burners, as well as intricately carved wooden stands for deities, all of which showcase the traditional characteristics of Chinese temples. In the past, during local parades, villagers would place the deity statues on these wooden stands. The temple is serene and solemn, adorned with large hanging incense spirals that spiral upward and can burn continuously for up to three weeks. These long-burning incense spirals symbolize wishes for health, wealth, and happiness. Taking a moment to rest inside the temple feels like a way to clear away the mundane worries of daily life.

Man Mo Temple

Why go: One of the most popular and actively visited temples in Hong Kong.