Location & How to Get There

The Temple of the God of Wealth sits snugly within Fengyan Ancient Temple in Phoenix Mountain Forest Park, Fuyong Street, Bao’an District, Shenzhen. To reach this hidden gem, you’ll head to the western part of Shenzhen—think of it as a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. If you’re coming by metro, hop off at Fuyong Station (Line 11) and grab a taxi or a local bus (like Bus 654) for the final 15-minute ride. The temple’s nestled at the foot of Phoenix Mountain, so keep an eye out for signs pointing to the forest park entrance. Drivers can navigate using “Fengyan Temple” on Waze or Google Maps—there’s free parking available, though it gets crowded on weekends.

Natural Scenery: A Breath of Fresh Air

Nestled in Phoenix Mountain Forest Park, the Temple of the God of Wealth is surrounded by lush greenery and hiking trails. The air here feels cleaner, with tall trees providing shade and a cool breeze, especially in the morning. You’ll hear birds chirping and might spot squirrels scampering around. A stone path winds up the mountain, lined with lanterns and statues of mythical creatures. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the trail, while autumn offers crisp weather perfect for photos. For panoramic views, climb to the Phoenix Tower nearby—it’s a 30-minute hike, but the sunset over Shenzhen’s skyline is worth it.

Cultural Charm: Meet the God of Wealth

The Temple of the God of Wealth isn’t just a random spot—it’s a historic site dating back to the Ming Dynasty (that’s like the 1400s!). Locals believe it’s a lucky place to pray for prosperity. Inside, you’ll find statues of Caishen, the Chinese god of wealth, dressed in royal robes and holding a money bag. Offering incense here is said to attract good fortune. On Chinese New Year and his birthday (the 5th day of the Lunar New Year), the temple buzzes with lion dances and firecrackers. Even if you’re not into rituals, the colorful decorations and intricate carvings on the temple walls make it a visual treat.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Visiting the Temple of the God of Wealth? Here’s what to prep:

  • Wear comfy shoes: The mountain path has steep spots.
  • Cash for offerings: Buy incense or paper gold “coins” at nearby stalls (prices start at ¥20).
  • Water & snacks: No cafes inside, but there’s a small shop at the park entrance.
  • Sunblock & hat: It gets sunny, even in winter.
  • Camera: The red-and-gold temple contrasts beautifully with green hills.

Exploring the Area: More Than Just the Temple

After visiting the Temple of the God of Wealth, stick around to explore Phoenix Mountain. Hike to Wufu Temple (another ancient shrine) or try the Phoenix Mountain Hiking Trail, which takes about 2 hours round trip. For food, head to Fenghuang Village outside the park—local joints serve dishes like goose stuffed with glutinous rice (a Shenzhen specialty) and stir-fried river shrimp. If you’re craving something familiar, there’s also a Starbucks near the park’s main gate.

A Day in the Life: Typical Visit

Here’s how a typical trip to the Temple of the God of Wealth rolls out:

  1. 9:00 AM: Arrive at the park, snap photos of the temple’s roof (it’s covered in golden tiles!).
  2. 9:30 AM: Light incense at the altar, drop a coin in the donation box, and make a silent wish.
  3. 10:00 AM: Wander through the temple grounds, read the English-translated plaques about its history.
  4. 11:00 AM: Hike up to the Phoenix Tower for views of Shenzhen’s airport and the bay.
  5. 12:30 PM: Lunch in Fenghuang Village—try laked fish hotpot or deep-fried dough sticks.
  6. 2:00 PM: Head back to the temple for a quiet moment by the koi pond.
  7. 3:30 PM: Leave with a red ribbon (given by monks) tied to your bag—a local tradition for good luck!

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love It

The Temple of the God of Wealth isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a blend of nature, culture, and tranquility. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or learning about Chinese traditions, it’s got something for everyone. Pro tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. And hey, even if you’re not superstitious, lighting a stick of incense here feels oddly satisfying!