I like to avoid Hong Kong hotels, so I only do day trips to Fragrant Harbour, the city’s name translated to English. Quite a few day trips in past couple of weeks, in fact. Hanging with the Hong Kong strobists, or at the very cool PASM Workshop, or working away at my HK office: There’s always something to do and photos to be made.
The Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island is a gem that I visit as often as I can. I stumbled across it when walking along Hollywood Road a few years back. It’s famous – being used in television and movies, as well as a popular religious facility for both police officer and gangsters. The ceiling of the temple is covered in coils of incense. Visitors are warned of the burning dangers over head. The temple is a dark and sweet-scented escape: Quiet in a hectic city. If I’m at a loss as to what to do while on Hong Kong Island, I drop by.
Built in 1847, the temple is now owned by the Tung Wa Hospital Group. Tung Wa owns a few temples in Hong Kong – a strange acquisition. The temples prohibit photography, but the volume of tourists has made the posted signs a paper tiger. I once looking into getting a media pass – I think my China visa application was less complicated.
This photo was shot with a Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens on my now persnickety 40D. I used AV mode set to f/1.4 at ISO 400. Canon’s 50mm lenses, the f/1.8 and f/1.4 are a bargain – quality images for those on a budget. I vow to use mine more. A vow of necessity actually – my walk-around lens, a 24-105 f/4L, is with the Canon doctors, being treated for an unknown ailment.
I once said I hate Hong Kong. My stance has softened since my early days. I still don’t like hotels in Hong Kong – way to expensive. Guest houses are a gamble. The major ones are unsavory: A mixed bag of backpackers, illegal immigrants, drug dealers, and prostitutes. I don’t have a problem with illegal immigrants, drug dealers or prostitutes.
Beautiful photo, Sheung Wan is among one of my favourite areas in Hong Kong. When the shops are open there’s always loads of interesting places to explore around there. I always worry that the Man Mo temple is going to burn down one day with all those incense coils being so close to the ceiling!
David´s last blog ..Taipei 101
I agree. I really like wandering around in Sheung Wan.
that is so very beautiful. i am laughing at the last paragraph.
YMCA, anyone?
jessiev´s last blog ..Travels with a Nine Year Old
That might be a better option
Stevo´s last blog ..Hong Kong: Incense at the Man Mo temple
In case anyone was wondering, the text is a wish from a father for peace and health for his family.
Thank you, Mr. Smithee. I meant to get that translated….
Stevo´s last blog ..A Tired Traveler in Turpan
I never knew that is what Hong Kong meant in English….awesome.
Nomadic Matt´s last blog ..Coming Back to Amsterdam
You be staying in Chungking mansions again? scarey place!
Quickroute´s last blog ..HUNKY DORY – HUBBA HUBBA!
I have to admit that I like Hong Kong. Sure, it is busy and noisy and kind of crazy…but at the same time you can find places where you can be alone if you want.
This temple was one of my favorites while there, the coiled incense and smoke create one very special image.
Happy travels!
Federico
hey thanks for sharing your experiences! Now you really make me wanna go there! would you like to check out the list of best beaches in Australia ?
Nicky´s last blog ..Best Australian Beaches updated Tue Jun 1 2010 4:14 am CDT