Shui Yuet Kung

Tucked away on Shan Tung Street, the Shui Yuet Kung whispers stories of old Mong Kok. This isn’t just any temple. The Shui Yuet Kung, also known as Tai Shek Ku, holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Originally built around 1884 with donations from Hakka villagers, it served the communities of Mong Kok, Ho Man Tin, and beyond. Imagine the hustle and bustle of early Mong Kok, a village coming together to raise this temple. It was a community hub, a place of worship, a testament to their shared faith. The Shui Yuet Kung witnessed the transformation of Mong Kok from a rural village to the vibrant urban center it is today. Relocated in 1926 due to road development, the temple found its current home on Shan Tung Street. Its management was passed to Kwong Wah Hospital just two years later, marking another chapter in its history. In 1927, after its relocation, the Shui Yuet Kung began a unique tradition. Every year, on the 26th day of the first lunar month, worshippers come to ‘borrow money’ from Kwun Yum, the Goddess of Mercy. This tradition, known as Kwun Yum Treasury Opening, symbolizes a hope for prosperity in the year ahead. The temple itself is dedicated to Kwun Yum, a figure revered for her compassion and mercy. She is believed to hear the pleas of those who suffer, embodying the spirit of hope and solace. During the 2018 renovation, a copper fan dedicated to Kwun Yum was discovered, bearing an inscription. This fan, donated by villagers and female worshippers, serves as a poignant reminder of Shui Yuet Kung’s deep-rooted connection to the community. Now under the management of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, Shui Yuet Kung continues to be a spiritual sanctuary, offering peace and a connection to history amidst the bustling streets of Mong Kok. Today, Shui Yuet Kung stands as a Grade 3 historic building, a symbol of resilience and community spirit. It serves as a quiet reminder of Mong Kok’s past, while continuing to play a vital role in the present, offering solace and hope to all who visit.