Located within the Chuk Yuen district of Kowloon, the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple stands as a testament to the legacy of Master Wong Tai Sin, a well-recognised Taoist deity known for his extraordinary powers of healing. Here are a few interesting facts and features to know about this historical temple.
A Divinely Guided Construction
The temple’s construction is said to have been guided by divine inspiration. In 1912 a group of Taoist priests deciphered instructions in a divinely inspired text, detailing the location for a new temple to be constructed. This prompted the construction of the temple’s main altar which is now frequented by many visitors, including tourists staying at nearby hotels like Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong.
Architectural Design
The temple’s architectural features carry a blend of different Taoist principles, Buddhist elements and Confucian influences. Its layout reflects Chinese Feng Shui; water is symbolised through the Yuk Yik fountain, fire through the Hueng Pavilion, earth through the Earth Wall and metal through the Bronze Pavillion.
Wang Ling-guan Shrine
Visitors from any Hong Kong Wan Chai hotel are directed along a route that begins at this shrine which is dedicated to the guardian deity in Taoism, Wang Ling-guan. A detailed lacquerware statue depicts the deity as being the protector of the temple’s gates and entrance.
Chinese Zodiac Animals
The temple’s second worshipping platform is adorned with majestic dragons and cranes. It also features identical statues of kneeling Taoist priests with outstretched hands holding bronze oil lamps.