Description
Hung Shing Temple in Ap Lei Chau is a Declared Monument. It was probably built in 1773 for the worship of Hung Shing (Deity for protecting fishermen and sea traders). Other deities include Kwan Tai (God of War), Tai Sui (Sixty Gods of Time), Man Cheung (God of Literature and Bureaucracy) and Kwun Yum (Goddess of Mercy), etc. The Temple is one of the very few traditional temples in Hong Kong still keeps its original fungshui setting (sea-oriented). Ap Lei Chau is a fishing community, villagers made their living by shipbuilding, fishing and marine trading. Worshippers believe Hung Shing (also named God of South Sea) would assure their safety and bring them good harvest.
Architecture:
The Temple adopted a "Two-hall and Three-bay" layout with skylight located between two halls. The temple structure supported by five pairs of pillars is not commonly found in Hong Kong. The ceiling of the passageway was decorated with Shiwan ceramic figurines featured civil ministers and generals, while the "God of Sun" and "Goddess of Moon" can be found at each side of the roof ridge. The eave board at the entrance of the Temple engraved with traditional auspicious symbols, such as peony and chayote.
Historical & Cultural Relics:
Historical relics survive in the temple, including a bell cast in 1773 and Shiwan potteries made in the Qing Dynasty.
Other Deities:
Apart from Hung Shing, the temple also houses Kwan Tai (God of War), Tai Sui (Sixty Gods of Time), Kwun Yum (Goddess of Mercy) and Man Cheung (God of Literature and Bureaucracy)
Renovations:
This temple underwent major renovations in 1988, 2005 and 2014.
