Chiwan Tianhou Temple

**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.