There are approximately 600 temples, shrines and monasteries in Hong Kong. Buddhism and Christianity are the most widely practiced religions; however, most world religions are found throughout Hong Kong. I was only able to visit two Buddhist Temples, but the evidence of religious worship is pervasive. The Chinese of Hong Kong are a religious people.

Like many cities throughout the world, those in need pray for alms on busy thorough fares.

Complete with fruit for departed ancestors and burning incense, religion tradition informs daily living for many in Hong Kong.

For the devout, the temple entrance holds the promise of greater wisdom within.

Just outside the temple entrance a lantern, in the traditional style, lights the path to wisdom.

Above the tile roof of a Hong Kong Temple, detailed ceramic artwork tells the story of rich religious tradition.

Love Gods and Goddesses are popular at the Kwun Yan Shrine at Repulse Bay.

Inlaid gold and cultured pearls enhance Godly reverence for temple worshippers.

Burning incense is an important element to worship for traditional Chinese.

Burning candles are part of the religious tradition of many of the world’s religions.

Worshippers can burn incense at many places throughout the shrine of Kwun Yam.

Each mini-shrine, contributes to the religious tradition of the Kwun Yam shrine.

Gold Gods and Money Gods are popular at the Kwun Yam Shrine where visitors line up to rub the God’s belly.

A buddhist Temple Goddess stoically watches patrons drift past.

Crowned Gods stand sentinel as patrons pass their ranks.

A tile turtle provides transportation for a Buddhist God.

Savory smoke ascends to heaven for the devout Buddhist.

Intricate ceramic artwork invoke religious symbolism throughout the temple.

Beautiful Chinese characters adorn the shrine of Kwun Yam.

Ceramic tile are a rich part of the visual appeal of the Kwun Yam Shrine.

Each character tells a story at the Buddhist Temple Shrine of Kwun Yam.

Standing over 10 meters high, Kwun Yam stands guard over the sea at the Buddhist shrine near Repulse Bay.

A shrine for burning incense adorns the porch of many homes and apartments in Hong Kong.

The Buddhist Temple Shrine of Kwun Yam touches the sea at Repulse Bay, Hong Kong.