Wong Tai Sin Temple (Sik Sik Yuen)
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Located in north Kowloon, Wong Tai Sin Temple (Sik Sik Yuen) is one of the most famous and popular temples in Hong Kong. Although dedicated to the Immortal Wong, a Taoist deity of healing, the temple caters to Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian worshippers. The beautifully ornamented temple is also famous for fortune-telling and answering prayers.
The Basics
A number of Hong Kong sightseeing tours, particularly those that focus on Kowloon, include a stop at the Wong Tai Sin Temple, along with other popular nearby attractions such as the Ladies’ Market, Chi Lin Nunnery, or Nan Lian Gardens.
The Wong Tai Sin Temple complex covers 193,750 square feet (18,000 square meters) and is built in traditional Chinese architectural style, with red pillars, golden roof, blue friezes, yellow latticework, and multicolored carvings. Following the principles of feng shui, there are buildings representing all five elements here. Start off at the main courtyard and observe or take part in the popular fortune-telling practice of kau cim. Make your way around the different halls and altars, such as Three Saints Hall and Confucian Hall. Don’t miss the tranquil and beautiful Good Wish Garden, with pavilions, bridges, waterfalls, and ponds.
Things to Know Before You Go
Wong Tai Sin Temple is an active place of worship, so be respectful.
Entrance to the temple is free, but a donation is expected.
There is a fee to enter the high-tech Tai Sui Yuenchen Hall, accessed via stairs that go beneath the temple.
Flash photography and videotaping are not permitted inside the temple.
The temple is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Wong Tai Sin Temple is located in north Kowloon. Take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin Station (exits B2 or B3). Or take bus 1, 2F, 3, or 11 to the Wong Tai Sin Temple stop.
When to Get There
Wong Tai Sin Temple is open daily and most crowded on weekends. To see the temple at its liveliest, visit during Chinese New Year or on Wong Tai Sin’s birthday, the 23rd day of the eighth lunar month, usually in September.
Kau Cim Fortune-Telling
The Chinese practice of kau cim entails shaking a container of bamboo sticks until one falls out. The stick is exchanged for a piece of paper corresponding to a number, which is then taken to a fortune-teller for interpretation. Fortune-tellers in the more than 100 stalls on the temple grounds will interpret the paper for a fee, or you can check the fortune online at the temple’s website for free.
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