Buddhism and Taoism

Buddhism and Taoism, traditional Chinese religions, have a large local
following with more than 600 Chinese temples in Hong Kong. Buddhist
and Taoist deities are often honoured together in the same temple. Leading
deities include Buddha, Kwun Yum (the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy) and
Lui Cho (a Taoist god).

Deified mortals are revered in recognition of their feats. Since Hong Kong
has always depended on the sea - originally for fishing and then for trade -
Tin Hau, the Queen of Heaven and Protector of Seafarers, is worshipped
widely. During Tin Hau Festival, which falls on the 23rd day of the third
moon, many worshippers visit the most famous Tin Hau temple at Joss
House Bay on the Clear Water Bay Peninsula.

Other leading deities include Kwan Tai (God of War and the source of
righteousness), Pak Tai (Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven and local
patron of the island of Cheung Chau) and Hung Shing (God of the South
Seas and a weather prophet).

The very popular Wong Tai Sin Temple in north-eastern Kowloon is
dedicated to a Taoist deity and is built in traditional Chinese architectural
style. Other notable temples include the Che Kung temple in Sha Tin in the
New Territories, which is dedicated to a Sung Dynasty general; Man Mo
Temple for the Gods of Literary Attainment and Martial Valour on
Hollywood Road on Hong Kong Island; and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau
Island, home to the world's largest outdoor bronze statue of Buddha, the
Tian Tan Buddha.

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