In Hong Kong, you will find folk religious temples and churches in different regions, but the city is also home to several historical and culturally diverse religious sites. During the colonial period, South Asian soldiers, military personnel, and traders arrived in Hong Kong and soon established roots. Here are five of the most distinctive religious sites in Hong Kong, including mosques , gurdawara (Sikh Temple) and Hindu temples:
1. Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre
The Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre is the largest mosque in Hong Kong. It was built in 1901, located near Kowloon Park on the site of the former British army barracks on Nathan Road. The mosque is known for its classical Islamic architectural design, including a domed upper prayer hall and four tall minarets. Five daily prayers are observed at the mosque, and visitors are welcomed to come for spiritual contemplation.
Address: 105 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
2. Jamia Mosquey
Jamia Mosque is the oldest mosque in Hong Kong. It was completed in 1916, replacing the old mosque that stood on the same site. The old mosque primarily served as a place of worship for Muslims from Southeast Asian countries. The mosque’s rooftop features a crescent and star symbol, and its exterior walls are mint green. In March 2022, it was recognized as a Grade I historic building and a declared monument in Hong Kong.
Address: 30 Shelley Street, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong Island
3. Sikh Gurdwara
Located in the bustling city center of Wan Chai, the white furnishing of the Sikh Gurdwara give it a sense of purity. The temple is not only a sanctuary for Sikhs but also showcases the principles of charity and community service emphasized in Sikhism. The temple’s langar hall provides free meals and temporary accommodation services for those in need.
Address: 371 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
4. Happy Valley Hindu Temple
The Hindu Temple in Happy Valley is a Grade II historical building and a place of worship for the Hindu community. The exterior walls of the temple are pink, following the architectural style of North India. The three-storey temple has a prayer hall on the top level, where three shrines are enshrined, dedicated to three main deities. There is also a small Hindu cemetery in the hills behind the temple, but it is not open to the public.
Address: 1B Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong Island
5. Burma Lines Hindu Temple
Located in the Queen’s Hill public housing estate in Fanling, Burma Lines, the Hindu temple is nestled amidst lush greenery. The exterior walls are painted in a dark camouflage green, while the interior features decorative walls in red and blue. The temple has a rich history, serving as a place of worship and a former British army barracks for Nepalese Gurkha soldiers and the police force. It has been duly recognized as a Grade III historical building. The sacred temple now attracts many visitors who are drawn to the mysterious atmosphere it exudes.
Address: Queen’s Hill, Fanling, New Territories, Hong Kong
*All these sites are open to the public, but visitors should dress appropriately and show respect when visiting these religious sites.
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