It was built during the Qing Dynasty in 1847. It is one of the oldest temples in the city. It is also famous for its rich colors of gold and red incense coils.
About Man Mo Temple
Man Mo Temple was used to worship both Man, the God of literature, and Mo, the God of war.
Where is Man Mo?
The lavish interior is reminiscent of past centuries, and the vibrant downtown city is only a few minutes away. This creates a fascinating contrast that is both captivating and charmingly mysterious.
What is The Man Mo Temple?
The Man Mo Temple is where locals and tourists can worship the God of Literature (Man Tai) and the God of war (Mo Tai). It can be found halfway up Victoria Peak, Hollywood Road.
It is located in the prime real estate of Hong Kong, only a few minutes from the SOHO district.
Locals still use the temple to pray for literary or academic success.
Another fantastic temple is Ten Thousand Buddha’s Monastery.
The Chinese Fortune Sticks
Visit the Man Mo Temple to get your fortune read.
Although fortune-tellers are available around the temple, it is worth looking inside for the fortune sticks.
A tube of sticks is found on a counter. Once you have asked a question, shake the jar to raise one bar to the top.
Bring the stick to the Man Mo Fortune Stick predictions books. Turn the page to find the number that your post has to say.
Man Mo temple: Settlement of Disputes
It is also used to calmly and safely settle disputes (hence, God of war!). It is not unusual for a visitor to see locals peacefully discussing a topic.
Man Mo Temple symbolizes traditional, social, and religious practices in the Chinese community.
The temple, as a structure, is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship. It remains an example of traditional Chinese architecture.
It is decorated with intricately carved ceramic figurines, wood- and granite carvings, plaster moldings, and various murals.
The main building is composed of several assembly halls and the temple.
The complex’s main building is dedicated to Man Tai & Mo Tai. Other halls are committed to the appropriate gods.
The whole complex is a vast and colorful wonder that should be seen by anyone who visits Hong Kong.
History of Man Mo Temple
Wealthy Chinese merchants constructed the Man Mo Temple in 1847 during Qing Dynasty.
The Tu Wah Group of Hospitals has managed it since 1908.
Hong Kong Historic Building
It was awarded the “Grade I historic structure” title in 1993. Not surprisingly, it was declared a monument shortly after that.
Man Mo Temple is a place of worship. It was also used historically as a court of sorts, where Chinese and colonialists resolved their differences during the concessions.
The halls’ other functions varied, from worship spaces to public meeting places.
The temple continues to honor its historical purpose of resolving disputes!
Man and Mo Gods in the Temple
In various depictions, the temple features the two gods, Man and Mo, who are the temple’s patrons.
Man, the God of literature, holds a writing brush while Mo, the God of war, wields an iron sword.
Chinese used to seek out the gods in examinations. Their proper worship was believed to bring them luck and academic success.
What should you expect?
Man Mo Temple is one of three blocks of a complex: Lit Shing, Man Mo Temple, and Kung So.
They are all open to the public and free of charge, making it easy for people to visit.
The exterior of the temple is plain and unassuming. However, it needs to be more accurate when you consider all the wonders inside.
A series of plaques are also found outside the temple. These were often carried out during processes.
Although they aren’t written in English, one plaque asks for silence, while the other warns women going through menstruation to stay away from the main hall. ).
Man Mo Temple Incense Coils
Inside, expect a mysterious, smoky atmosphere with reds and golds. Large incense coils hang from ceilings and burn non-stop.
Incense is considered an offering to the gods and can be found everywhere at Man Mo Temple. Be careful if you are sensitive to smoke!
A coil can be purchased, and a person may write a wish on the red card. The smoke from the incense is carried to the heavens as the incense burns.
Other Facts
Although Man Mo Temple has been renovated many times, its original appearance has remained the same and is still very authentic.
It’s unspoiled by time, which is why it’s so unique.
Two exquisite 19th-century chairs are part of the temple’s centerpiece. Each chair is carved with intricate designs.
These stunning pieces were used to transport Man and Mo during Festivals.
Tips for visiting Man Mo Temple
- Man Mo Temple is open every day from 8 am to 6 pm.
- The temple allows you to enter for free.
- You can access it on foot or via a covered elevator, the longest in the world.
- Keep your voice low when entering the temple, and be mindful of taking photos. This is where worshippers are welcome, so locals and visitors must respect the peaceful, meditative atmosphere.
- Address of Man Mo Temple: 124-126 Hollywood Rd Central, Hong Kong
- Take the Queens Road Central escalator to Hollywood Road.
- For hiking, go to Victoria Peak and follow signs to the temple.
Things to Do Near Man Mo Temple
- You can also visit the nearby Botanical and Zoological Gardens for more sightseeing.
- The Hong Kong Culture Center is also located near the temple. It makes a great pairing with the smoky atmosphere at Man Mo.
- Ensure you visit the boutiques and cafes in SOHO (South of Hollywood).
- Victoria Peak is close by and can be reached by tram.
- You are also close to the antique shops that line the streets next to the man mo temple.
- Check out the small gift shop after all that is said and done!
