Visiting

Visit

Sincerity matters more than form. If this is your first visit there is no need to feel nervous — the notes below are a guide.

Where to offer incense

1
Heaven Emperor censer
Jade Emperor
In front of the temple. Pay respects here first, then go inside.
2
Main hall
The Five Lords
Li, Chi, Wu, Zhu and Fan — the principal deities of this temple.

Ask the staff for incense; one stick per censer is enough.
Facing the deity, say silently your name, date of birth, where you live, and what you wish to ask.
Bow three times, then place the incense in the censer, taking care not to touch anyone.
If you wish to ask with the moon blocks, first tell the Lord what you are asking about, then cast them.

Tidy clothing is enough; please avoid very revealing clothes.
Please keep your voice down inside; no photography or filming while the deity is present on consultation days.
Place offerings on the altar table; you may take them back after worship.
Please hand spirit money to the staff rather than burning it yourself.
The lane in front of the temple is narrow; please park in the nearby spaces and keep the lane clear for neighbours.

Two crescent blocks, each with one flat side and one rounded side. Cast them after saying what you are asking about.

One flat, one rounded

The deity agrees.

Both rounded sides up

The deity smiles: the question is unclear, or worth thinking over again.

Both flat sides up

The deity does not agree.