Che Kung Temple,Hong Kong

Legends say Che Kung used his leadership and supernatural protection to defend civilians during the Southern Song period and to ward off plagues. A famous wooden statue of Che Kung at the temple is believed by devotees to possess protective power and to grant blessings; many stories tell of wishes granted after offerings and the spinning of the temple's distinctive fan/blade. Another popular local practice is the returning of the ‘bamboo sticks’ (kau chim) and the renewal of amulets each Lunar New Year — rituals credited in folklore with bringing luck and averting misfortune.

• The principal statue of Che Kung (Song-dynasty general)
• The large ceremonial fan/blade used by worshippers to 'spin' for good luck
• Incense halls and altars with offerings and wooden plaques
• The courtyard and water features where devotees perform rituals
• Nearby open spaces and Sha Tin town attractions (e.g., Sha Tin Park, Tai Wai Market)

• Traditional Cantonese temple architecture with ornate wood and ceramic decoration
• The ritual of spinning the fan/blade and drawing fortune sticks (kau chim)
• Large crowds and festive atmosphere during Lunar New Year (especially the 2nd day)
• Close proximity to Che Kung Temple MTR Station (convenient urban access)
• Combination of daily worship practices and large community festivals

• Offer incense, paper offerings and light candles at the altars
• Spin the fan/blade and draw fortune sticks (kau chim) to seek blessings
• Make donations and purchase or renew protective amulets and charms
• Observe and photograph traditional rituals, architecture and crowd celebrations
• Combine the visit with a walk in Sha Tin Park or shopping at Tai Wai/ Sha Tin markets

• Che Kung Festival / Lunar New Year (2nd day of Lunar New Year): the temple receives the largest crowds; devotees come to pray for protection and luck for the coming year.
• Major New Year rituals and peak crowds during the first three days of Lunar New Year
• Occasional community events and temple-organized blessing ceremonies

Best: Lunar New Year for atmosphere and rituals (expect heavy crowds). For a quieter visit, go on weekday mornings or outside the first week of the Lunar New Year (spring and autumn offer pleasant weather).

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate: hot, humid summers (May–September) and mild, drier winters (December–February). Bring sun/rain protection in summer; autumn (Oct–Nov) and spring (Mar–Apr) are generally comfortable for walking and sightseeing.

Entry: Free to enter (donations accepted). Timings: The temple is typically open daily; exact opening hours vary by season and special events—check local notices or the temple’s information board before visiting.

Very accessible by public transport: nearest stop is Che Kung Temple MTR Station (Tuen Ma Line) with short walking distance. Bus and taxi options are plentiful from Sha Tin. The site has level courtyards and ramps in many areas, but some sections involve steps—ask staff or volunteers for assistance if needed.

Plan 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on crowd levels and whether you combine the visit with nearby attractions; allow extra time during Lunar New Year for queues and rituals.

Wear respectful, comfortable clothing for temple visits. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water in summer; an umbrella or light raincoat is useful year-round. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Try nearby Hong Kong favorites in Sha Tin such as roast meats, dim sum and street snacks. Souvenirs at and around the temple include lucky charms, embroidered amulets, incense, and small wooden pinwheels used as tokens of good luck; local markets sell pastries and traditional festive items during Lunar New Year.