Haven’t you noticed that even in a booming metropolis like Shenzhen, you can still find places that reflect traditional Chinese culture? The Tian Hou Temple is one such place. It is also known as the Temple of the Queen of Heaven.
The Tian Hou Temple stands in the small port town of Chiwan. It is in Nanshan District. The journey from the city center takes about an hour by subway. This temple is not just a place of worship. It is also a museum showcasing marine and folk traditions.
Imagine it is the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty. The Tian Hou Temple is built. It stands as a witness to the maritime history of this region. The goddess Tian Hou or Mazu is a Chinese sea goddess. Temples like this one are built in her honor. She ensures the safe passage of sea vessels. The front doors of Tian Hou temples always face the sea.
During your visit to the Tian Hou Temple, a woman selling incense may guide you. She might direct you to the parking lot. There, signs lead to the entrance. A massive red arch greets you and the ticket booth is on the side.
As you enter the temple, a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere surrounds you. The buildings are beautifully preserved and colorfully painted. You notice that not many people are visiting the temple. Some families are hanging out in the garden. Others are giving their respects and prayers to the gods.
Legend says that a famous Ming admiral, Zheng He, was commissioned by Emperor Zhu Di to sail west. When he approached the Pearl River Delta near Chiwan a ferocious storm halted his fleet. The Goddess Tian Hou appeared to the emperor. She said that she had saved his fleet and asked him to build a temple nearby as thanks. Zheng He and his men built the temple. He personally planted the original “wish giving tree” in the courtyard.
Tian Hou protects fishermen, sailors and others whose lives depend on the ocean. She is worshiped in Guangdong, Fujian, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau.
Inside the main hall you’ll find a large golden statue of the goddess. A golden and ornately decorated statue that dominates other deities such as Caishen the Chinese god of wealth and Guanyin bodhisattva of compassion. There is also Tian Hou’s bed and furniture.
The decorative portal is guarded by two loyal generals. They are Chien Li Yen and Shun Feng Er. Their postures show their protective abilities. They can see and hear anyone that might prove troublesome for Tian Hou.
Today, at the Tian Hou Temple the wish-giving tree is weighed down with lucky red cards and ribbons. To ease your troubled mind inscribe your prayers and wishes. Then tie them to the branches of this ancient tree.
Chiwan is still an important port on the Pearl River Delta. The Tian Hou Temple stands as a reminder of Shenzhen’s past. It is a beautiful contrast to the city’s modern skyscrapers. Remember to take subway Line 2 to Chiwan station and exit C to visit this special temple.