Tin Hau Temple

Tin Hau Temple

This Tin Hau Temple was founded by some Aberdeen fishermen in 1851. Most Tin Hau temples are located on slopes along coastlines. The Aberdeen Tin Hau Temple is no exception. However, with reclamation which took place over the years, the temple is now away from the coast and surrounded by bustling streets.

Origin of the Temple

Since Aberdeen was originally a fishing centre, local fishermen built this temple to pray for protection from Tin Hau. Tin Hau (天后) who is also called Matsu (Mother-Ancestor) was a native of Fujian Province. She met a Taoist priest at the age of 13 who taught her how to predict the future and help those who were sick and weak. It was said that she travelled about the sea on a mattress made of reed to save the people who were being drowned. People therefore looked upon her as the goddess for safety on the sea.

There are a few temples on Lamma Island dedicated to Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea including this temple at the south side of Sok Kwu Wan. The temple is believed to be originally built 150 years ago. However, the building you see today was a major restoration work after the temple burnt down in 2004. The exterior is a mix of grey brick and red brick around the entrance.

You’ll find attractive tile and ceramic murals, green tile roofing with decoration. Just in front of the temple are typical guardian lions and incense burner. The interior is small with expected shrine, deity figures, ancient bell. However, what is perhaps most interesting is the case with a 2.75 metre long Oar Fish. This is a rare fish that was landed by local fisherman in 2001 and handed over to the local Rainbow Seafood Restaurant where it was on display for some time before ending up here in the Tin Hau Temple.

In the end, the Tin Hau Temple is right on the main Lamma Island Family Walk trail making it convenient and easy to visit at Sok Kwu Wan, its a pretty little temple, worth spending a few minutes to enjoy as part of your visit to Lamma.