Once, a ferocious storm threatened Zheng He’s fleet near Chiwan. This is the story of Tin Fu Tsai.
Here in Tin Fu Tsai, we stand before a testament to ancient mariner traditions. It is a story etched in the stones of the Tian Hou Temple. This temple isn’t just a building. It’s a cultural landmark.
The Tian Hou Temple stands as the largest temple in Guangdong Province dedicated to Tian Hou. Tian Hou is also known as Mazu or Heavenly Queen. She is the patron saint of seafarers. People revere her throughout southern China’s coastal regions. The temple enjoys fame in Hong Kong, Macao, and Southeast Asia.
Legend says the original temple dates back to 1410. They built it as an offering to Mazu. This was for protecting the fleet of Zheng He. Zheng He was China’s most famous navigator. Emperor Zhu Di commissioned Zheng He to sail west. Approaching the Pearl River Delta near Chiwan, a storm halted the fleet. Goddess Tian Hou appeared to the emperor. She said she had saved his fleet. She requested a nearby temple as thanks. Zheng He agreed and built the temple. He personally planted the original wish-giving tree.
Tian Hou protects fishermen and sailors. Her devotees are anyone whose lives depend on the ocean. People worship her in Guangdong, Fujian, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau.
Inside the main hall, a large golden statue dominates. It represents Tian Hou. You will also find Caishen and Guanyin. Caishen is the Chinese god of wealth. Guanyin is the bodhisattva of compassion. In the corner, see Tian Hou’s bed and furniture. They use these in the annual celebration of her birthday.
Tian Hou was born in 960 AD on an island off the coast of China. She was born into a family of fishermen. She gained her goddess status after saving her brother from drowning in a typhoon. Legend says she either died searching for her father or flew to be with the gods.
To the right of the temple, see Zheng He’s Celestial Tree. People weigh it down with lucky red cards and ribbons. Modern scaffolding supports it. You can inscribe your prayers and wishes. Then, tie them to the branches of this ancient tree.
In front of the main hall, incense burns in huge containers. Walkways lead to further courtyard areas. A decorative portal stands guarded by two loyal generals. They are Chien Li Yen and Shun Feng Er. Their postures show protective abilities. They can see and hear anyone who might prove troublesome for Tian Hou.
In the main courtyard, explore the two-story drum tower. The bell tower is currently closed for renovations. There has been some remodeling of the original moon and sun-shaped pools. They have been replaced by a single carp fish pond.
Chiwan remains an important port on the Pearl River Delta. Close to Tian Hou Temple, you can also visit the Left Fort. You can also visit the tomb of the last emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty.
The temple stands as a beacon. It overlooks the massive docks and shipyard at Chiwan Port. Appreciate its importance. It offers the promise of protection to sailors. They venture out on long journeys across the South China Sea. The Tian Hou Temple and Tin Fu Tsai offer a glimpse into Shenzhen’s past. It is more than just a booming city of skyscrapers.