The original temple dates back to 1747 (the date of the temple bell)[1] and was built by members of the Tai family, a family of Hakkas from Guangdong, who first settled in Kowloon.[2] Legend has it, the family used to travel by boat to Causeway Bay to gather grass and discovered an incense burner found floating miraculously on the sea. This incident gave rise to one of the pre-colonial names for Hong Kong Island, Hung Heung Lo (Red Incense-burner island).[3]
The present building dates back to 1868 and despite renovations, is still largely in its original form. It is now located inland as a consequence of land reclamation, originally being on the waterfront.[4]
The temple is famous for the fine Shek Wan figurines on its roof and eaves, and the quality of its stone carvings around the entrance. Inside the temple, the main altar and several side altars are dedicated to Tin Hau, Goddess of the Sea and patron "saint" of seafarers.[3]
Additional side altars dedicated to Tsoi San, the God of Wealth, and Kwun Yum, the Goddess of childbirth. Finally there are side altars to the black-faced Pau Kung, the Lenient Judge of the Underworld.[3] He is worshipped in the hope that he will be merciful to the souls in his care.
