In my earlier post – Navigating the Hong Kong Island’s Most Iconic Attractions – I mentioned that we first discovered Man Mo Temple through the Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition 2025 at the Peak Tower. While there are several Man Mo Temples across Hong Kong, the one we visited is located in Sheung Wan on Hong Kong Island.
A Bit of History
This Taoist temple is easily recognisable by its green-tiled roof. Built between 1847 and 1862 by wealthy Chinese merchants, it was created to honour both heavenly gods and important deities. In 1993, it was listed as a Grade I historic building, and in 2010, it was officially declared a monument. Today, the temple is managed by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals.
The two main deities worshipped here are:
- Man Cheong (文昌) – God of Literature and Civil Examinations, symbolised by the pen and writing brush. Students and professionals often pray to him for success in education and career advancement.
- Mo Tai (武帝) – also known as Guan Yu (Kwan Tai), the God of Martial Arts. A heroic general during the late Eastern Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period, he became a folk deity after his death, admired for his loyalty and bravery.
The Temple Complex
The temple consists of three main sections:
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- Man Mo Temple (left block) – Dedicated to the Gods of Literature and Martial Arts. Inside, you’ll find well-preserved artefacts such as a Qing Dynasty bronze bell (cast in 1847) and a sedan chair from 1862. The hall is beautifully decorated with carved granite pillars, wooden plaques, murals, and dozens of hanging incense spirals.
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- Prayers for education: Offer paper money, three joss sticks, a scallion (for intelligence), and Chinese celery (for diligence). Some also bring books and stationery to place on the altar. Read more about it here.
- Prayers for success and prosperity: Offer lettuce (for wealth), fruits, joss sticks, longevity incense, and money offerings.
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There are also Bad Luck Transformation talismans available here. You simply purchase one from a vending machine, exchange the receipt for the talisman, and follow the ritual. The ceremony, dedicated to Pau Kung (Justice Bao, a fair and incorruptible judge from the Northern Song Dynasty), symbolically “cuts away” misfortune using miniature guillotines decorated with dragon, dog, or tiger heads depending on your Chinese Metaphysics. After completing the ritual, you place the halved talisman into the red ritual box.
- Lit Shing Kung (middle block) – Built to worship all heavenly gods. The hall is filled with thick incense smoke and more hanging spirals.
- Kung Sor (right block) – This section contains ancestor tablets, a small shop, and fortune tellers. Note that photography is not allowed here.
Getting There
From the Peak Tram, we took Bus 22 and walked down the staircase to the temple. It’s a far easier downhill stroll than attempting to climb up—especially in the rain! The temple is also within walking distance of the Mid-Levels Escalator and Sheung Wan MTR station.
Final Thoughts
Man Mo Temple is one of Hong Kong’s most atmospheric historic sites and a must-visit, regardless of your religion. Whether you come to admire its heritage, soak in the incense-filled ambience, or take part in traditional rituals, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s cultural and spiritual life.
