Ever wondered where fishermen pray for safe voyages? Welcome to Joss House Bay. It is home to Hong Kong’s oldest and largest Tin Hau Temple. This temple is also known as Tai Miu.
Joss House Bay gets its name from this very temple. Locals also call the bay Tai Miu Wan. This means “the bay of the large temple”.
Legend says Lam Tao-yi built the Tin Hau Temple in 1266. Nearby, a rock bears Hong Kong’s oldest inscription. It dates back to 1274. This carving marks a visit by a salt administration officer.
Every year, thousands gather here for Tin Hau’s birthday. The celebration falls on the 23rd day of the third lunar month. People hike or sail to Joss House Bay to pay their respects. The High Junk Peak Hiking Trail leads many to the temple. Hundreds of vessels sail into the bay. Celebrations draw crowds of 40,000 to 50,000 people.
Even the police hold ceremonies here. They launch new cruisers at the temple. This shows the temple’s importance in local life.
The Lam clan managed the temple until 1939. Since then, the Chinese Temples Committee has overseen it. The temple became a monument on October 20, 2023. It was formerly a Grade I historic building.
Reaching Joss House Bay involves a scenic journey. You can hike via the High Junk Peak Hiking Trail. A shorter walk from Clear Water Bay Country Club is also an option. A ferry runs from North Point Ferry Pier on Tin Hau’s birthday. Alternatively, a green minibus from MTR Po Lam station stops near the Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club. From there, a 10-minute walk down stairs leads to Joss House Bay. You will pass the ancient rock inscription on the way.
Tin Hau Temple at Joss House Bay stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s rich maritime history. Its ancient stones and vibrant festivals create an unforgettable experience.