[2025 Shenzhen Attraction] Travel Guide for Chiwan Tianhou Temple (Updated Mar)

#christmastrip #cultural #heritage #shenzhen Bandhan district is the historical city centre of Shenzhen City. Went to three cultural heritage attractions there (around Shekou) during Christmas, including: 1. Chiwan Tin Hau temple 2. Tomb of Song Emperor 3. Chiwan Left Fortress they are all around Chiwan station of Shenzhen Metro Line 2 and 5, but you need to walk along dusty roads and then hike a bit to reach the Left Fortress.

Tianhou Temple with little ones🐢🐢 can be fun. They will most likely be thrilled at seeing all the turtles. This Temple is located in Shenzhen, China and is usually not very crowded. inexpensive family outing. It is amazing to think it was built in 1410. #happynewyear #happynewyear

**Location** Chiwan Tianhou Temple, also known as Chiwan Tianhou Ancient Temple, is located at the foot of Xiaonanshan Mountain in Chiwan Village, Nanshan District, Shenzhen. Adjacent to the Pearl River Estuary and the Lingdingyang Sea, it sits at a key point on the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Its location is exceptional, with mountains at its back and the sea facing it. It was the core landscape of "Chiwan Shenggai," one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Xin'an" during the Ming and Qing dynasties. **History** The Tianhou Temple was first built in the Song Dynasty (some say it was built during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty) to commemorate Mazu (Lin Moniang), the goddess of the sea. It embodies the faith of fishermen and merchants praying for safe voyages. The temple was renovated during Zheng He's voyages to the Western Seas in the Ming Dynasty. It reached its peak during the Qing Dynasty due to the booming maritime trade, becoming one of the largest Tianhou Temples in coastal China. At its peak, it had dozens of buildings, and its incense was spread throughout Southeast Asia. In modern times, it was severely damaged by war and the Cultural Revolution. In 1992, it was rebuilt by the local government and the public, and is now a key cultural relic protection site in Shenzhen. **Architectural Features** The rebuilt Tianhou Temple is built on the mountainside, covering an area of about 40,000 square meters. It adopts the ancient architectural style of Lingnan during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The main buildings include the archway, the mountain gate, the bell and drum towers, the main hall, the side halls, and the Tianhou Culture Exhibition Hall. The eaves and corners of the halls are exquisitely carved. The main hall enshrines the golden statue of Mazu, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere. The temple preserves stone inscriptions from the Ming and Qing dynasties and the ruins of the ancient wharf, bearing witness to the history of maritime trade. **Cultural Significance** As the most representative Mazu cultural site in Shenzhen, Chiwan Tianhou Temple is an important carrier of marine culture in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Every year during Mazu's birthday on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, temple fairs, parades, and other folk activities are held, attracting believers from home and abroad. Its history is intertwined with the Tianhou Temples in Hong Kong and Macao, highlighting the common maritime beliefs in the Lingnan region. **Current Status and Visiting** Today, Tianhou Temple is not only a religious site but also a tourist attraction integrating history, culture, and ecology. Nearby are the Wentianxiang Memorial Park, the Tomb of Emperor Bing of Song, and other historical sites. Visitors can climb the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of Shenzhen Port. The scenic spot is free to the public. Visitors can take subway Line 2 to Chiwan Station and then walk or transfer to a bus to reach the temple. With its profound historical heritage and unique cultural landscape, Chiwan Tianhou Temple has become a must-see cultural landmark in Shenzhen, narrating the vicissitudes and legends of the millennium-old coastal frontier.

#chinatrip Tianhou Museum, located in Shenzhen, is a fascinating cultural gem that offers visitors a deep dive into the history and traditions surrounding the worship of Mazu, the Sea Goddess. The museum's exhibits showcase a rich collection of artifacts, including intricate sculptures, historical documents, and traditional maritime items that highlight the significance of Mazu in Chinese culture and maritime history. The architecture of the museum itself is striking, combining modern design with traditional elements, creating a harmonious environment that enhances the visitor experience. As you explore the various galleries, you'll find engaging displays that tell the story of Mazu's influence on coastal communities and their beliefs. The museum also hosts cultural events and educational programs, making it a dynamic space for learning and appreciation of local heritage. The serene surroundings and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a peaceful backdrop for reflection. Overall, Tianhou Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese culture, history, and maritime traditions, offering an enriching experience that resonates with both locals and tourists alike.

Tin Hau, also known as Mazu, is a deity commonly worshipped by generations of shipbuilders, sailors, and coastal residents. Many coastal areas have Mazu temples built. The Chiwan Tin Hau Temple in Shenzhen was originally built during the Song Dynasty, and has been repaired multiple times from the Ming to the Qing Dynasties. It covers an area of about nine hundred acres. Its architecture is majestic and magnificent, with a temple appearance that is grand and imposing. It is the largest Tin Hau temple in China's coastal areas with ninety-nine gates, and it is also the most prestigious cultural landscape in Shenzhen's history. It is one of the key protected units in Shenzhen. Attention tips: Photography is not allowed in the main hall Admission: Free Transport: Metro Line 2, Chiwan Station, Exit C