Hau Wong Temple

Deep within the vibrant tapestry of Kowloon City, nestled at the junction of Junction Road and Tung Tau Tsuen Road, stands the Hau Wong Temple. It’s a place where whispers of history intertwine with the scent of burning incense, a testament to loyalty and courage. The Hau Wong Temple isn’t dedicated to a single person, but to the spirit of Yang Leung-jit, a general who served the last emperor of the Southern Song dynasty. He remained steadfast in his duty, protecting the emperor even as his own health failed, a beacon of hope during a tumultuous era. The Hau Wong Temple, built around 1730, stands as a tribute to his unwavering devotion. Some believe that the temple’s historical characters were crafted by Chang Yu-tang, Commodore of Dapeng and general of Kowloon Walled City, adding another layer of historical intrigue to this sacred place. The Hau Wong Temple is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living museum, echoing with the footsteps of emperors and officials. During the Qing dynasty, from 1847 to 1899, the temple served as a place of homage for stationed soldiers, connecting it directly to the historic Kowloon Walled City. Inside, you’ll find the main hall, adorned with intricate sculptures and housing deities like Hau Wong and Kwun Yum. The air is thick with the aroma of incense, curling upwards towards the ornately decorated roof. Look closely, and you might discover the Chinese character for “goose” in the pavilion and “crane” at the back of the hill. Don’t miss the incense urn, bearing the inscription “In front of Hau Wong,” a mark left by Qing officials in the 27th year of the reign of Daoguang. The Hau Wong Temple is a place where the past comes alive, where the spirit of Yang Leung-jit and the echoes of history linger. It is a must-see for anyone seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Hong Kong’s past.