Vibrant Hong Kong is a country that blends its proud heritage and culture with a colourful past. Discover the exotic here as you explore relics from its colonial years under the British and observe the customs of the lands well preserved religion. Learn of the nation’s colourful history and traditions of its proud occupants. Read on and book your memorable holiday to Hong Kong with Travel Center today.
Take on a Temple Tour
Let the soothing aroma of josh sticks rejuvenate your mind body and soul as you tour the many temples of Hong Kong.
The Beautiful Wong Tai Sin Temple
This infamous Taoist temple – Wong Tai Sin is dedicated to the teachings of the immortal ‘Wong’. The temple which is one of Hong Kong’s premier attractions is located in vibrant Kowloon just south of another major attraction – The Lions Rock. Devotees flock to the temple due to its reputation of ‘answered prayers’ and is home to many locals lost in prayer. ‘Kau Sim’ a traditional form of prayer is practised here adhering to an age old adage of ‘What you ask is what you get’, which seems to work for the devoted locals who place much reverence in the temple.
Walk around the Won Tai Sin Temple and discover other attractions such as the Nine Dragon Wall and the Three Saint Hall. The Three Saint Hall is dedicated to the memories of Lu Dongbin, Guan Yin and Lord Guan. History and architecture buffs will love the traditional buildings and architecture genius displaying typical Chinese styled coloured carvings, intricately designed golden roofs inlaid with yellow latticework and imposing red pillars.
Try and plan your visit to the temple during honoured Wong Tai Sins birthday celebration festival or the days that follow the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is quite interesting to observe how worshipers wait outside the temple just before midnight to be the first to offer incense sticks to the revered saint just as the New Year dawns. The belief here is that the earlier an offering is made the more good luck one will have throughout the year. A real treat to any visitor would be to observe a very colourful Taoist wedding ceremony at Wong Tai Sin Temple.
The Po Lin Monastery and Infamous Big Buddha
Beautiful Lan Tau Island should definitely be on your list of sightseeing places when in Hong Kong. One of the main attractions here is the Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha. Both monuments are placed against a stunning backdrop of beautiful mountains, lush countryside’s and the gorgeous South China Sea.
The Big Buddha – the largest sitting statue in the world is an impressive bronze structure that is 34m in height. Just as impressive is the three tiered alter of worship the Buddha sits on. You will notice a number of religious artefacts are displayed on the tiers. Watch out for the traditional ringing of the temple bell which is quite a sight weighing around six tonnes. As tradition dictates the bell is rung exactly 108 times in one day.
Culture buffs explore the Monastery and its impressive architectural facades; you will also discover intricate Chinese adornments within the main prayer room.
Explore the Hong Kong Heritage Museum
The Hong Kong Heritage Museum located in Sha Tin brings together a fine collection of culture, history and art. The site based along the scenic Shing Mun River is a lovely spot in which to spend an evening of cultural entertainment.
On display are a number of interactive exhibits that showcase the country’s diverse heritage. Visitors are encouraged to hang around for artistic performances and interactive discussions which are held on a regular basis at the museum auditorium. Do make it a point to catch a performance of the infamous Cantonese Opera which is performed within a traditional bamboo house. You will love the glitzy costumes and accessories that are part of a proud inheritance from many generations of opera performers.
Historic Village of Lam Tsuen
Check out the concept of the – ‘Wishing Trees’ at the historical villages of Lam Tsuen. The much loved wishing trees are a pair of ancient banyan trees which are found in the centre point of the 700 year old historic villages. According to legend people would write their wishes on paper and wrap it up in an orange, which is then tossed into the branches of the tree. Unfortunately this act is now prohibited as a means of preserving the much loved trees. Do however visit the villages for sights of the ‘wishing trees’ and an insight to olden day traditions and customs practised within these villages.
Another must see attraction in Lam Tsuen is the historical Tin Hau Temple which is a dedication to the mighty Sea Goddess. Culture buffs will love the fact that the temple was constructed during the Qing Dynasty.
The Tsz Wan Court Temple
A dedication to ancient Chinese mythology the Tsz Wan Court temple is a labyrinth of gorgeous frescoes and lifelike statues that depict ancient Chinese tales of Gods and demons. Many folklore myths are depicted within these murals while imposing figurines of demons are depicted in startling poses that bring to life the horrifying myth of the 18 levels of hell as preached under Taoist belief. Continuing with the mystery you will love exploring the shrine reserved for spirit tablets and the ancient art of ancestral worship.
Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre
The Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre is an interesting artsy village. Located in the not so well known locale of Shek Kip Mei the centre is worth a visit if you are in Hong Kong. Workshops, exhibits, performances and colourful artistic festivals are held here on a regular basis.
Apart from all this cosmopolitan Hong Kong is also an amazing place for shopping, dining and simply enjoying the holiday vibes check out the amazing travel deals to Hong Kong offered at Travel Center.
