Hau Wong Temple (Kowloon City), Hong Kong - Buddha Tooth Relic Temple along South Bridge Road, Singapore at night.
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Hau Wong Temple Kowloon City Hong Kong

4.2
·168 reviews·, Hong Kong

A historic temple in Kowloon City dedicated to a Song Dynasty prince, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese worship and architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Hau Wong Temple (Kowloon City), Hong Kong - Buddha Tooth Relic Temple along South Bridge Road, Singapore at night.

Hau Wong Temple Kowloon City Hong Kong

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic temple in Kowloon City dedicated to a Song Dynasty prince, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese worship and architecture.

4.2
(168 reviews)

"A serene historical gem in Kowloon City, perfect for a quiet cultural immersion."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy!

🙏 Dress Modestly

Show respect by wearing conservative clothing. Avoid shorts and tank tops.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Altar

Main Altar

Main Hall

Marvel at the ornate carvings and vibrant deity statues, the heart of the temple's spiritual significance.

Intricate Roof Decorations

Intricate Roof Decorations

Exterior

Admire the detailed ceramic figurines and colorful motifs adorning the temple's roof, a testament to traditional craftsmanship.

Historical Artifacts

Historical Artifacts

Display Cases

Discover ancient artifacts and historical tablets that offer glimpses into the temple's long and storied past.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

To truly soak in the atmosphere of Hau Wong Temple, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist hours. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details without the hustle and bustle. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for fewer crowds.

Respectful Attire and Etiquette

As a place of worship, dressing modestly is appreciated. Avoid revealing clothing. Be mindful of your volume and actions within the temple grounds. Observe local customs and be respectful of worshippers. Photography is generally allowed, but always be discreet.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Tranquil and reflective
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy! Reddit

🙏 Dress Modestly

Show respect by wearing conservative clothing. Avoid shorts and tank tops. Reddit

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be discreet when taking photos. Avoid flash photography directly at deities. Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary, especially on holidays. Confirm before your visit. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy! Reddit

🙏 Dress Modestly

Show respect by wearing conservative clothing. Avoid shorts and tank tops. Reddit

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be discreet when taking photos. Avoid flash photography directly at deities. Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary, especially on holidays. Confirm before your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(168 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise Hau Wong Temple for its historical significance and intricate traditional architecture, offering a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. While some find it a bit small, its cultural value and the surrounding culinary scene in Kowloon City are consistently highlighted as major draws.

"If you are over in Kowloon City the Hau Wong temple is worth a visit.
Being the main temple in the area, it is also one of the very few in Hong Kong that has such a rich collection of artifacts.
Entry is free and just remember to respect your surroundings.
Worth a look."

C

"A temple dedicated to Hau Wong侯王, whose legend traced back to a courageous general during the Southern Song Dynasty named Yeung Leungjit 楊亮節
The temple was built around 1730 CE. It consists of a Main Hall, Lohan Hall, Buddha Hall, Lung Wah Hall, and a Garden"

Tiffany Ma

"There are several Hau Wong Temples to be found in Hong Kong but this one is probably the most famous. The Hau Wong Temple in Kowloon City was built in 1730 and rests on Junction Road half way between the Lok Yu MTR station and the Kowloon Walled City Park. It is a Grade 1 historical building and makes a nice quick stop for those planning to visit the Kowloon Walled City.

There is disagreement as to the origins of this temple. However, the prevailing belief is that the temple commemorates a Chinese general, 'Hau Wong' Yeung Leung-jit, who helped the last emperor of the Song Dynasty by providing him refuge in Kowloon, averting invading forces in search of him.

Hau Wong Temple has cultural artefacts including attractive wall reliefs and Chinese calligraphy. Also, the main hall contains images of Hau Wong as well as chambers which are well decorated. The temple is quite small and can be comfortably visited in 10-15 minutes, making it convenient to see before or after your visit to the nearby Kowloon Walled City Park.

Overall, this Hau Wong decent temple visit but there are better temple visits in the area. These include Wong Tai Sin (Wong Tai Sin - MTR) and the Chi Lin Nunnery (Diamond Hill - MTR). In the end, this Hau Wong Temple is a good stop on the way to the Kowloon Walled City Park."

Brad

What People Like

Historical architecture
Peaceful atmosphere
Cultural significance

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The temple is easily accessible by public transport. Take the MTR to Kai Tak Station (Tuen Ma Line) and it's a short walk. Alternatively, numerous bus routes serve the Kowloon City area. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Parking in Kowloon City can be challenging. Public parking lots are available nearby, but they can fill up quickly. It's generally recommended to use public transportation. Reddit

Kai Tak Station on the Tuen Ma Line is the closest MTR station. From there, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to the temple. Reddit

Several bus routes stop in the vicinity of Kowloon City Plaza and Hau Wong Road, which are close to the temple. Check local bus schedules for routes like 11, 11B, 14, 15, 17, 21, 24, 25, 27, 42, 45, 98D, etc. Reddit

While the main prayer hall is generally accessible, some older temple structures might have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check with the temple management for specific accessibility details. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Hau Wong Temple is generally free. It is a functioning place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and observe respectfully. Reddit

The temple is typically open daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, hours can vary, especially on public holidays or during special ceremonies. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, donations are welcome and help with the temple's upkeep and preservation. Donation boxes are usually available near the entrance or main altar. Reddit

Yes, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Avoid revealing clothing such as shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted, but it's crucial to be discreet and respectful. Avoid using flash photography, especially when it might disturb worshippers or damage artifacts. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the intricate architecture, observe the main altar with its deity statues, and explore the historical artifacts displayed. It's a place for quiet reflection and appreciating traditional Chinese temple culture. Reddit

A visit typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in exploring the details and observing the atmosphere. Reddit

Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, you can often find local guides in the vicinity, or simply explore at your own pace and read informational plaques if available. Reddit

The temple is dedicated to Hau Wong, a Song Dynasty prince, and is a significant cultural and historical landmark in Kowloon City, reflecting local beliefs and heritage. Reddit

Weekends and public holidays can be quite busy with local worshippers and tourists. Weekday mornings and afternoons are generally much quieter. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Kowloon City is known for its vibrant food scene. You'll find numerous local eateries, dai pai dongs, and restaurants offering a variety of Hong Kong cuisine just a short walk from the temple. Reddit

Kowloon City offers a diverse culinary experience, from traditional Cantonese dim sum and roast meats to international flavors. It's a great area to explore for authentic local food. Reddit

While not directly at the temple, exploring Kowloon City's "food street" (Jieyang Street) or nearby areas for roast goose, wonton noodles, or dim sum is highly recommended. Reddit

You can find vegetarian and vegan options in Kowloon City, though it might require a bit more searching. Many restaurants can accommodate simple requests. Reddit

No, eating and drinking are not permitted inside the temple premises to maintain its sanctity and cleanliness. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main altar with its vibrant deities and the intricately decorated roof are prime photo opportunities. The temple's facade and historical artifacts also make for great shots. Reddit

It's best to avoid flash photography inside the temple. The light can be disruptive to worshippers and potentially damage delicate artifacts over time. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric and less obstructed photos. Reddit

Drone photography is generally not permitted in urban areas like Kowloon City due to aviation regulations and privacy concerns. Always check local drone laws before flying. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens (e.g., a 24-70mm equivalent) would be ideal for capturing both the grand architecture and intricate details. A smartphone with a good camera can also capture excellent shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hau Wong Temple offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's rich cultural heritage, which can be an educational experience for families. While it's a place of worship, the vibrant decorations and statues can capture children's attention. Keep the visit brief and focus on the visual aspects.

Tip: Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Kowloon City Park, which has playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around. This makes for a more balanced outing for the whole family. Remember to explain the importance of respectful behavior in a temple setting to children beforehand. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

For solo travelers, Hau Wong Temple provides a peaceful respite from the city's hustle and a chance for quiet contemplation. It's easily accessible via public transport, making it a convenient stop on your itinerary.

Tip: Take your time to observe the details of the temple's architecture and the local worshippers. Consider exploring the surrounding Kowloon City area afterward for authentic local food experiences, which are often budget-friendly and offer a true taste of Hong Kong life. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Hau Wong Temple

Hau Wong Temple, located in the heart of Kowloon City, is a significant historical and cultural landmark dedicated to Hau Wong, a young prince from the Southern Song Dynasty. Legend has it that the prince sought refuge in this area during the Mongol invasion. The temple was built to commemorate his tragic fate and to honor his memory, becoming a focal point for local worship and community identity. Its construction dates back to the Qing Dynasty, with significant renovations and expansions over the centuries, reflecting its enduring importance to the local populace. The temple's architecture itself is a blend of traditional Chinese temple design, featuring ornate carvings, colorful ceramic figurines on the roof, and a serene main altar.

Over time, the temple has evolved from a simple shrine to a complex structure that houses various deities and artifacts, serving not only as a place of worship but also as a repository of local history and folklore. It stands as a testament to the resilience of Chinese culture and the deep-rooted traditions that continue to thrive in Hong Kong. Visitors can often find historical tablets and inscriptions within the temple grounds that offer further insights into its past. The temple's enduring presence in the bustling urban landscape of Kowloon City makes it a unique window into Hong Kong's rich heritage. Reddit+1

Exploring Kowloon City's Culinary Delights

Beyond its historical significance, Kowloon City is renowned as a foodie paradise in Hong Kong. The area surrounding Hau Wong Temple is a vibrant tapestry of local eateries, traditional dai pai dongs, and bustling markets, offering an authentic taste of Hong Kong's culinary scene. From succulent roast meats and flavorful wonton noodles to delicate dim sum and exotic street snacks, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many of these establishments have been serving the community for generations, preserving traditional recipes and cooking methods.

One of the most famous culinary hubs in Kowloon City is its 'food street' area, where you can find an incredible array of local delicacies. It's an experience that engages all the senses, with the aromas of stir-fried dishes and the lively chatter of diners filling the air. Exploring these food streets is an adventure in itself, offering a chance to discover hidden gems and savor authentic flavors that are characteristic of Hong Kong's diverse gastronomic landscape. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local specialties that have made Kowloon City a must-visit destination for food lovers. Reddit+1

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