Far from the paddy fields of old Shenzhen lies a temple dedicated to the sea. This is Tian Hou Temple. It is also known as Lee’s Temple.
Lee’s Temple offers a glimpse into Chinese history. It stands as a testament to Shenzhen’s cultural roots. Shenzhen is often seen as a modern metropolis. Yet, places like Lee’s Temple remind us of its rich past.
Originally built in 1410 during the Ming Dynasty, Lee’s Temple has been rebuilt many times. Fishermen built it to receive blessings from the Goddess of the Sea. She is also known as Matsu. Her name means Mother of Heaven.
Legend says that in 1410, Emperor Zhu Di commissioned Zheng He to sail west. Nearing Chiwan, a storm threatened the fleet. The Goddess Tian Hou appeared to the emperor. She claimed to have saved his fleet. She requested a nearby temple as thanks. Zheng He agreed. He and his men built the temple. He planted the first wish-giving tree.
Tian Hou is believed to protect those dependent on the ocean. She is worshiped in many coastal areas. These include Guangdong, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau.
Inside Lee’s Temple, you will find a golden statue of Tian Hou. She stands in the main hall. Lesser deities such as Caishen and Guanyin surround her. Caishen is the Chinese god of wealth. Guanyin is a bodhisattva of compassion. There is also Tian Hou’s bed and furniture. It is used in the annual birthday celebration.
Tian Hou was born in 960 AD. Her family were fishermen. She became a goddess after saving her brother from a typhoon. Some say she died searching for her father. Others say she flew to be with the gods. Today, you can visit over 1500 temples dedicated to her. They are in 26 countries.
To the right of Lee’s Temple, you will find Zheng He’s Celestial Tree. People tie red cards and ribbons to its branches. The tree requires scaffolding for support. Visitors inscribe their wishes on the cards.
Two loyal generals guard a decorative portal. They are Chien Li Yen and Shun Feng Er. They protect Tian Hou. They can see and hear trouble from afar.
The temple has a two-story drum tower. The bell tower is currently closed. Renovations are underway. The original yin and yang pools have been replaced. A modern carp pond stands in their place. The original Tian Hou statue is missing.
A sea wall once protected Lee’s Temple. A newer wall now blocks the view of the shipyard. A well nearby is said to be haunted by a drowned boy’s spirit.
Lee’s Temple overlooks the docks at Chiwan Port. This highlights its importance. It offers protection to sailors on long journeys. Nearby, you can visit the Left Fort. You can also visit the tomb of the last emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty.
Lee’s Temple remains an important place of worship. During the two weeks before Tian Hou’s birthday, the temple celebrates. Visitors witness tradition in action. Entry to Lee’s Temple costs 15 RMB.
Getting to Lee’s Temple is straightforward. You can take the orange metro line to Chiwan. Then walk to the temple. Buses also stop nearby.
So remember the story of Lee’s Temple. It connects us to the past. It reminds us of the sea’s importance. It shows us the enduring power of faith.