A spiritual beacon in Kowloon’s northern reaches, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is dedicated to the Great Immortal Wong (Wong Tai Sin), a revered figure in Taoism worshipped for his power to heal and grant wishes. The story goes that 15-year-old Wong was taught how to brew a herbal potion capable of curing all illnesses, thus making him the favored god of medicine for those praying for good health.
Built in 1921, the temple is one of Hong Kong’s largest, designed in traditional Chinese style. Inside the Main Hall and courtyard, worshippers pray for luck by lighting incense, using moon blocks and numbered bamboo "fortune sticks," which are shaken out of a box on to the ground (they’re available for free to the right of the main temple). Take the noted numbers to an attendant fortune teller to be read – some provide services in English. Expect a consultation to cost upwards of HK$100.
Accessed via stairs beneath the temple is Tai Sui Yuenchen Hall, a subterranean, ultramodern chamber of worship that looks like something out of a Vegas casino (HK$100 entry) and couldn't be more of a departure from the traditional setting above. Set back behind the temple are the Good Wish Gardens, with decorative pavilions, bridges and carp pools.
The busiest times at the temple are around Chinese New Year, Wong Tai Sin’s birthday (23rd day of the eighth lunar month – usually September) and on weekends. To reach the temple, take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin station.