In Search of Religious Spirit in Hong Kong

Under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief. Religious freedom is also one of the fundamental rights enjoyed by Hong Kong residents. A large variety of religious groups are based in this international financial city.

Buddhism

Over 2000 years ago, it was introduced into China from India, currently with around 1 million followers and over 400 temples. Completed in 2015, the Tsz Shan Monastery is one of the prominent temples. The 76m tall bronze-cast statue of Guan Yin (aka Avalokitesvara) is notable, together with Maitreya, Manjusri and Samantabhadra as the four great Bodhisattvas. 

Founded by Li Ka Shing Foundation, visitors can enjoy various kinds of spiritual practices, including zen calligraphy, guided tour and Buddhist Art Museum, with reservation. The Buddha nature is possessed by all sentient beings. By constant hearing, reflecting and practicing, they lead us to the cessation of defilements, and the achievement of wisdom and peace. 

The Ngong Ping Cable Car accesses one to the Big Buddha, regardless of the standard or crystal version. Atop the Mount Muk Yue, it is the second largest outdoor bronze seated Buddha at south, yet facing north towards Beijing. Together with the Po Lin Monastery, they are a major draw for Buddhist pilgrims towards Lantau Island. Grants blessing and happiness to all.

If the Islands District is too remote, Chi Lin Nunnery offers you a further religious vibe in the city center. Founded in 1934 as a retreat for Buddhist nuns, it was rebuilt in 1998 following the Tang dynasty design. The temple serves both the statues of Guanyin, aka the goddess of mercy, and the Sakyamuni Buddha. Soak up the religious heritage in the Nan Lian Garden.

Taoism

An indigenous religion of China with 2000 years of history. Currently, Hong Kong has over 1 million followers and more than 300 Taoist abbeys and temples. As representatives, the Hong Kong Taoist Association organizes religious and charitable activities to promote Taoist scriptures and values, including the birthday of the deity Laozi on every second Sunday of March.

Under the guidance from Master Wong Tai Sin, the Taoist priests erected the  Temple in the area of Chuk Yuen, composing the 5 elements in Feng Shui culture. Worshippers offer incense sticks in Wong Tai Sin Temple on the Chinese New Year's Eve; while they encounter the statue of Che Kung and a wheel of fortune on the second day for better luck.

Christianity

This religious community numbers about 1.3 million. most of whom are Protestants and Roman Catholics. Hong Kong Christian Council and Hong Kong Chinese Christian Church Union facilitate the cooperation among the Protestant churches; while the Roman Catholic Church maintains its close links with the Pope and other global Catholic communities.

Béthanie used to be a sanatorium built by the Paris Foreign Missions Society in 1875. St. Mary’s Church is structured in the classic basilica style but embellished with Chinese traditional motifs. St. John Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church of 170 years of history, opened in 1849 mainly for the British garrison at the time. Can you name other iconic architecture?

Islam

According to the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong, there are an estimated 300,000 Muslims in the city. All local Islamic activities are coordinated by the trustees, including the announcement of dates of Ramadan, and the inspections with certification issued for halal food in Hong Kong and parts of Mainland China.

On the other hand, the trustees also manage the mosques, cemeteries and education institutions. With its distinctive white-marble finish, the Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre is a notable landmark in Tsim Sha Tsui, with a capacity of 3500 users. However, the oldest mosque was built in 1849 in Mid-Levels, which has been declared a monument in 2022.