Lo Pan Temple — Attraction in Hong Kong

Lo Pan is traditional Chinese style temple located at the Ching Lin Terrace around half way between HKU and Kennedy Town Station. This is the only temple in Hong Kong dedicated to Lo Pan, the Chinese figure of builders and carpenters.

Constructed in 1884, this is a two-hall structure which follows the topography of the hillside, resulting in the front hall being a few steps lower than the rear hall. You will find an interesting exterior with side gable walls, which are unique amongst local temples in Hong Kong. The facade features impressive murals above the entrance as well as detailed plaster reliefs, which are unfortunately difficult to view as they are behind metal screens.

The interior features a rear hall with shrines, deity figures as well as more murals and plaster reliefs which you will see just above the doors to the right and left. Here you can view ceramic figurines up close. Do note that the interior is kept rather dimly lit so photography can be a bit of a challenge when little natural light is entering the temple from the front entrance.

In the end, Lo Pan is an interesting temple and something worth seeing if you are in the area around HKU and making your way to Kennedy Town. It is quite an uphill trek if starting from Kennedy Town and there is little else to see in the area for tourists. As such, unless you are in HK and actively seeking out temple visits, you may want to concentrate your efforts on temples nearby other sightseeing stops you have planned...

The construction of the temple was made possible by donations from over a thousand companies and individuals in the Chinese mainland, overseas and local community. The site was donated for the construction of the temple by Lee Li Hing (李禮興), a local businessman. The building of a Lo Pan temple in 1884 reflects the mature and blooming construction and building business in Hong Kong at the time. Such was a substantial patronage need for the companies and workers of the trade.

The temple is located on a rectangular site on Ching Lin Terrace among a number of terraces in Kennedy Town. It is a two-hall building with a recessed facade. The tall building had an open courtyard between the two halls but now covered. Its gable walls are the most prominent called ‘Five Peaks Paying Tribute to Heaven’(五岳朝天式) having five pointed and sharp-angle wings. The design is a rare example in Hong Kong.

The style is very special unlike those of most Chinese historic buildings which are mainly Cantonese. It is close to those of Hunan (湖南) or Fujian (福建) provinces. Most of the features of the temple are unique employing distinguished craftsmanship. The wall paintings, carvings, engravings, ‘water-washed’(polished) greenbricks and the Shiwan ceramics of Gungyuk (均玉) kiln in particular are of supreme quality. The temple was expanded in 1927, and a communal hall with a school was built next to the temple. It is well maintained though not so popular as...

Lo Pan Temple in Kennedy Town is a fascinating piece of Hong Kong’s cultural and architectural heritage, dedicated to Lo Pan, the patron saint of builders and carpenters. Built in 1884, it’s one of the few temples in the city dedicated to a trade deity, making it a unique and historically significant site. The temple is known for its intricate architecture, colorful ceramic decorations, and detailed carvings that showcase traditional craftsmanship.

Unfortunately, when I visited, the temple was closed, so I wasn’t able to explore the interior or fully experience its rich history. However, even from the outside, the temple’s design and serene atmosphere were impressive. Despite being tucked away in a quiet residential area, its charm and cultural significance make it worth seeking out.

I’ll definitely plan to visit again next time when it’s open, as it seems like a peaceful retreat and a meaningful landmark for anyone interested in Hong Kong’s heritage. For those planning a visit, it might be a good idea to check the opening...