In the cultural fabric of Chinese traditions, the God of Wealth holds a paramount position, acting as a symbol of prosperity, success, and good fortune.
These temples dedicated to the deity are not just places of worship but also considered some of the luckiest places to visit, attracting believers who seek financial blessings and a prosperous life.
Temples dedicated to the God of Wealth are dotted across the globe, each with its unique charm and spiritual significance.
We will take you on a captivating journey across continents, showcasing some of the most auspicious God of Wealth temples around the world, where devotees flock in search of blessings, change their luck and a touch of prosperity.
Table of Contents
1. Asia’s Auspicious God of Wealth Temples
China: Zhao Gongming’s Temple, Shanxi Province (赵公明财神庙)
Perched in the heart of China, Zhao Gongming’s Temple in Shanxi Province is a famous pilgrimage site for those who wish to pay their respects to the God of Wealth.
Dating back to the Song Dynasty, this temple houses a statue of Zhao Gongming, a renowned deity associated with wealth. The fervor here peaks during the Lunar New Year, when devotees gather to pray for a prosperous year ahead.
- How to Get There: Zhao Gongming’s Temple is located in the city of Jincheng, Shanxi province. You can take a flight to Jincheng and then use local transport to reach the temple.
- How to Pray for Luck: Prayers at Zhao Gongming’s Temple are conducted by lighting incense, bowing before the deity three times, and making your prayer for wealth and prosperity.
China: Green Ram Temple, Chengdu (青羊宫)
The Green Ram Temple, also known as the Green Goat Temple or Qing Yang Gong, is the oldest and largest Taoist temple in Chengdu. It houses numerous Taoist deities, including the God of Wealth, making it an ideal place to pray for prosperity.
- How to Get There: The temple is easily accessible by Chengdu’s public transportation. You can take Bus No. 11, 58, or 306 and get off at Qingyang Palace Station.
- How to Pray for Luck: Upon entering, purchase incense sticks from the temple’s shop. Light the incense, hold them in prayer position, bow towards the statue of the God of Wealth, and express your wish. Place the incense in the provided incense burner afterward.
China: City God Temple, Shanghai (上海城隍庙)
This historic temple is nestled in the bustling area of Shanghai’s old city. It honors the City God, a guardian deity, but also contains shrines for other gods, including the God of Wealth.
- How to Get There: The temple is located in Huangpu District, near the Yuyuan Garden. You can get there via Metro Line 10, and get off at Yuyuan Station.
- How to Pray for Luck: Purchase incense sticks and ‘fortune coins’. Light the incense, bow to the God of Wealth, and throw the coins into the God of Wealth’s pot for blessings of prosperity.
China: Wong Tai Sin Temple, Hong Kong (黃大仙祠)
This renowned shrine in Hong Kong is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, a Taoist deity known for his healing powers. The temple also houses a statue of the God of Wealth, attracting those wishing for monetary luck.
- How to Get There: The temple is easily accessible via the MTR. Take the Kwun Tong Line and get off at Wong Tai Sin Station.
- How to Pray for Luck: Purchase incense sticks from the temple. Light them, make your prayers, then bow and place the sticks in the incense burner. The shaking of ‘fortune sticks’ (Kau Cim) is also a popular ritual here for divination.
Taiwan: Songshan Ciyou Temple, Taipei (松山慈祐宮)
In the bustling city of Taipei, the Songshan Ciyou Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality. Here, the God of Wealth is worshipped fervently, and the temple is renowned for its intricate architectural details and serene atmosphere. Visitors often offer incense sticks and pray for good fortune and wealth.
- How to Get There: Songshan Ciyou Temple is easily accessible by Taipei MRT. Take the Songshan Line to the Songshan Station, and the temple is just a short walk away.
- How to Pray for Luck: Devotees pray by first cleansing their hands and mouth using water at the temple entrance, then lighting three incense sticks to offer before the deity, bowing, and silently praying for wealth and fortune.
Taiwan: Zihnan Temple, Jhushan Township (紫南宮)
This temple, also known as Tsu Nan Kong, is located in the Nantou County of Taiwan. It’s renowned for its spiritual power and is an important religious site for the followers of the God of Wealth. Built in 1820, it has been a significant place of worship for many generations.
Aside from the grand main hall devoted to the God of Wealth, the temple also features picturesque scenery and architectural beauty, making it a site of cultural interest as well.
- How to Get There: To reach Zihnan Temple from Taipei, take the train to Jhushan Station. From there, it’s a 20-minute taxi ride to the temple. Alternatively, several bus services can take you directly to Jhushan Township from various points in Taiwan.
- How to Pray for Luck: As with most Taoist temples, worshipers light three incense sticks, bow three times before the deity’s statue, and then place the sticks into the incense burner. Make sure to express your desires sincerely in your heart. It is also customary to leave a small donation.
Taiwan: Xing Tian Temple, Taipei (行天宮)
Xing Tian Temple, located in the Zhongshan District of Taipei, is one of the most frequently visited religious sites in Taiwan.
Though the main deity worshipped here is Guan Yu, the God of War, he is also revered as the God of Wealth by business people due to his righteous and loyal nature.
- How to Get There: The temple is conveniently situated in the city center. It’s within walking distance from Xingtian Temple MRT Station, served by the yellow MRT Line.
- How to Pray for Luck: Visit the temple with a respectful and sincere heart. Purchase three incense sticks, and while holding them, bow towards the statue of Guan Yu. Place the incense in the provided incense burner and silently express your prayer. A small donation to the temple is appreciated but not obligatory.
Taiwan: Lungshan Temple, Manka (艋舺龍山寺)
This temple in Taipei is one of the oldest and most significant in Taiwan. It enshrines a multitude of deities, including the God of Wealth, making it a popular place for prayers related to fortune and prosperity.
- How to Get There: The temple is situated in the Wanhua District and is easily accessible via MRT. Alight at Longshan Temple Station.
- How to Pray for Luck: Purchase three joss sticks from the temple, light them, make your wish, then bow and place the joss sticks in the main incense burner.
Japan: Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine, Kamakura (銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社)
This popular shrine in Kamakura is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of wealth in Japanese Buddhism. Benzaiten is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune in Japanese folklore, and her domain includes anything that flows: water, time, words, speech, eloquence, music, and knowledge.
A unique ritual performed at the Zeniarai Benzaiten involves washing money (coins and notes) in the shrine’s spring water, believing that it will double the amount. This has made the shrine a popular spot for those seeking financial fortune.
- How to Get There: The shrine is located in the western part of Kamakura. The easiest way is to take the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) to the Kamakura Station, and from there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the shrine. You can follow the signboards along the way.
- How to Pray for Luck: Once at the shrine, purchase a basket and a candle from the shrine’s shop. Head to the water source, light your candle, and place your money in the basket. Rinse your money in the holy water while praying for financial prosperity. Remember, it’s the sincerity of your prayer, not the denomination of the currency, that matters. After the ritual, do not spend the washed money, instead keep it with you as a talisman for prosperity.
Singapore: Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple (观音堂佛祖庙)
The Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple in Singapore is not only a place of worship for the Goddess of Mercy but also a sanctuary for those seeking blessings from the God of Wealth.
Many Singaporeans visit the temple on auspicious days, praying for business success and financial prosperity.
- How to Get There: Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is situated in the Waterloo Street area, Singapore. It’s easily accessible by MRT; the closest station is Bras Basah on the Circle Line.
- How to Pray for Luck: At this temple, devotees typically light three joss sticks, bow three times before the deity, and place the joss sticks in the incense burner. Then, they make their silent prayer for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Some people also offer lotus candles and make a small donation to the temple for good karma.
Singapore: Sembawang God of Wealth Temple (三巴旺財神廟)
This temple is a spiritual gem nestled in the heart of Sembawang, known for its vibrant energy and devotion to the God of Wealth, also known as Cai Shen.
Housing a significant statue of the deity, the temple is a must-visit for those seeking prosperity and wealth blessings, particularly during the Chinese New Year.
- How to Get There: The Sembawang God of Wealth Temple is located at 28 Jalan Lengkok Sembawang, Singapore. You can easily reach the temple by taking the MRT to Sembawang station, followed by a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk.
- How to Pray for Luck: At this popular temple, devotees can offer incense and light candles before the statue of the God of Wealth. To invite prosperity into their lives, they often kneel and pray silently, asking for financial success and abundance. During the Lunar New Year period, especially on the fifth day (known as the birthday of the God of Wealth), the temple is usually bustling with visitors hoping to invite prosperity for the coming year.
Singapore: Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple (洛陽大伯公宫)
The Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple, located in Loyang Way, Singapore, is a multi-religion place of worship that houses a diverse range of deities from Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism, including the God of Wealth.
Its inclusive approach has made it a hub for devotees seeking blessings of good fortune and prosperity, regardless of their religious affiliations.
- How to Get There: The temple can be reached by taking Bus No. 6 from Pasir Ris Bus Interchange. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also convenient options.
- How to Pray for Luck: After entering, you can purchase incense and offerings from the temple’s shop. Light the incense, hold them with both hands, bow in the direction of the God of Wealth, and express your wish. Then place the incense in the designated incense burner. Remember to maintain a respectful and sincere demeanor while praying.
Malaysia: Thean Hou Temple, Kuala Lumpur (吉隆坡天后宮)
The Thean Hou Temple is a landmark six-tiered Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur. It’s one of the oldest and largest temples in Southeast Asia. Although dedicated to Thean Hou, the Heavenly Mother, it also has shrines dedicated to the God of Wealth.
Its grand architecture reflects a successful combination of modern architectural techniques and authentic traditional design featuring imposing pillars, spectacular roofs, ornate carvings, and intricate embellishments.
- How to Get There: Thean Hou Temple is located on Robson Hill, Kuala Lumpur. You can reach the temple by taxi, Grab, or local bus service (RapidKL bus number 655).
- How to Pray for Luck: This six-tiered temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu but also hosts shrines to the God of Wealth. Here, devotees light incense sticks, bow to the God of Wealth, and pray silently for financial success and prosperity. During Chinese New Year, the temple is festooned with red lanterns, a symbol of wealth and good luck, making it a particularly auspicious time to visit.
Malaysia: Kuan Yin Temple, Penang (觀音亭)
Located in George Town, Penang, the Kuan Yin Temple is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Penang. Despite being predominantly dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, the temple also venerates other deities, including the God of Wealth, making it a spot for locals and visitors to pray for good luck and fortune.
- How to Get There: The temple is located on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, and can be reached via public bus service or taxi.
- How to Pray for Luck: After entering the temple, you can purchase incense and offerings. Light the incense, hold them in a praying position, and then place them in the incense burner in front of the God of Wealth.
Malaysia: San Chai Temple, Melaka (三财庙)
The San Chai Temple is an important cultural landmark in Melaka, attracting numerous devotees seeking blessings for wealth and prosperity. It houses three significant wealth gods: Da, Zhong, and Xiao Tiancai. Its location near the popular Jonker Street makes it a convenient destination for tourists.
- How to Get There: The temple is located in Jalan Hang Lekiu, near Jonker Street. It’s within walking distance from most hotels located around the city center.
- How to Pray for Luck: Upon entering, purchase three joss sticks, light them, bow three times to each wealth god, then place the sticks in the incense burner. The burning of ‘hell money’ or ‘heaven bank notes’ as offerings is also common here.
Thailand: Erawan Shrine, Bangkok, (ศาลท้าวมหาพรหม)
Erawan Shrine, also known as the Thao Maha Phrom Shrine, is a major landmark in Bangkok. While technically not dedicated to the God of Wealth but rather to Brahma (Phra Phrom in Thai), many Thai and international devotees come here to pray for wealth and good fortune as Brahma is widely recognized as a granter of wishes in the Thai culture.
- How to Get There: The shrine is centrally located at the Ratchaprasong intersection, next to the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel. You can easily reach it by BTS Skytrain. The nearest station is Chit Lom.
- How to Pray for Luck: Purchase incense and flowers from vendors around the shrine, light the incense, and offer the flowers. Make your prayer to Brahma with sincerity. Some visitors also choose to hire traditional Thai dancers at the shrine to perform, in hope that their prayers will be favorably received.
Thailand: Wat Traimit, Bangkok (วัดไตรมิตรวิทยารามวรวิหาร)
Known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit houses the world’s largest solid gold statue. Although it’s not specifically a wealth temple, its opulence attracts those seeking prosperity and good fortune.
- How to Get There: The temple is situated near Hua Lamphong Station, Bangkok’s main railway station. It’s accessible by MRT (subway), get off at Hua Lamphong Station and walk for a few minutes.
- How to Pray for Luck: Purchase incense sticks, flowers, and a gold leaf. Light the incense, bow three times before the Buddha, and place your offerings. Attach the gold leaf onto the Buddha statue for good luck.
South Korea: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan (해동 용궁사)
This Buddhist temple, located on the coast of the northeastern part of Busan, is a unique temple in South Korea as most temples are located in the mountains.
Here, you can also pay respects to the statue of the God of Wealth. With majestic sea views, intricate statues, and the peaceful sound of the crashing waves, the temple offers a truly serene and spiritual atmosphere.
- How to Get There: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated along the coastline of northeastern Busan. Visitors can get there by taking the subway to Haeundae Station (Busan Subway Line 2), then catching bus 181 to the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple stop.
- How to Pray for Luck: While not traditionally associated with the God of Wealth, this unique seaside temple is popular among those seeking good fortune. Devotees toss coins into the “wishing well” in the shape of a ship to seek blessings. Praying at the large Dharma (Budai, Laughing Buddha) statue can also bring wealth and happiness.
Vietnam: Chua Ba Thien Hau Temple, Ho Chi Minh City (Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu)
Located in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, the Chua Ba Thien Hau Temple is dedicated to Thien Hau, the Lady of the Sea and protector of seafarers.
Despite this primary dedication, there’s also a space where locals and visitors can worship the God of Wealth. The temple is a blend of Chinese and Vietnamese architecture and culture, adorned with intricate porcelain dioramas that depict scenes from a 19th-century Chinese city.
- How to Get There: Chua Ba Thien Hau Temple is located in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City. The temple is within walking distance from the Cho Lon Bus Station, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
- How to Pray for Luck: While the temple primarily honors the Chinese sea goddess Mazu, it’s also visited by those wishing to seek blessings from the God of Wealth. Here, devotees light three incense sticks, bow before the God of Wealth’s statue, and place the sticks into the burner while praying silently for wealth and prosperity.
2. The God of Wealth Temples of North America
USA: Tin How Temple, San Francisco (天后古庙)
One of the oldest Taoist temples in the U.S., the Tin How Temple in San Francisco, is a key hub for those worshipping the God of Wealth.
Visitors often come seeking business blessings and good luck in financial endeavors.
- How to Get There: The temple is located in San Francisco’s Chinatown. You can reach it by taking a bus or the Muni Metro to the Powell Street Station, followed by a short walk.
- How to Pray for Luck: Here, it’s common to light joss sticks, offer them to the God of Wealth, and pray silently for prosperity.
Canada: International Buddhist Temple, Vancouver (国际佛教寺院)
A replica of Beijing’s Forbidden City, the International Buddhist Temple in Vancouver, also venerates the God of Wealth.
This temple’s tranquil ambiance and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit for those wishing to immerse themselves in Chinese traditions and seek wealth blessings.
- How to Get There: Located in Richmond, the temple is best reached by car or local transport from Vancouver.
- How to Pray for Luck: Prayer rituals typically involve lighting incense sticks, placing them in the incense burner, bowing before the deity, and making your prayer for wealth.
3. Europe’s God of Wealth Temples
UK: London Fo Guang Shan Temple (倫敦佛光山)
In the heart of London, the Fo Guang Shan Temple serves as a cultural and spiritual hub for the local Chinese community.
The temple is renowned for its Buddha statues and its dedication to the God of Wealth. Visitors often light incense and pray for prosperity and success.
- How to Get There: The temple is located in the London Borough of Southwark. It can be reached via London Underground; the nearest station is Bermondsey.
- How to Pray for Luck: In this temple, devotees light incense, bow, and pray silently to the God of Wealth, asking for prosperity and success.
4. Australia’s God of Wealth Blessing Shrines
Nan Tien Temple, Wollongong (南天寺)
The largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere, the Nan Tien Temple in Wollongong, also venerates the God of Wealth.
This architecturally stunning temple attracts visitors seeking spiritual wealth, prosperity, and peace.
- How to Get There: Nan Tien Temple is accessible from Sydney via train or car. By train, you can take the South Coast Line to Unanderra Station, followed by a short taxi ride.
- How to Pray for Luck: Prayers are conducted by lighting incense, offering it before the God of Wealth, bowing respectfully, and making your silent prayer for wealth and prosperity.
Visiting the Temples: What to Expect
Each of these temples has its unique customs and etiquette. Visitors should respect these traditions, dress appropriately, and observe silence where necessary.
The rituals for welcoming wealth can vary, but often involve offerings, prayers, and sometimes even unique ceremonies.
Praying For Wealth and Luck
The God of Wealth temples around the world not only serve as spiritual sanctuaries for those seeking prosperity but also stand as testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Chinese traditions.
Regardless of whether you’re a devotee or an observer, visiting these temples can offer a sense of peace, prosperity, and cultural enlightenment.
After all, the God of Wealth represents not only material prosperity but also the wealth of spirit, character, and kindness.
Which are the luckiest God of Wealth temples?
Some popular luckiest God of Wealth temples include Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple in Singapore, Zhao Gongming’s Temple in Shanxi Province, and Songshan Ciyou Temple in Taipei.
What can I expect at a God of Wealth temple?
At a God of Wealth temple, you can expect a sacred atmosphere filled with devotees seeking financial blessings and prosperity. Offerings, incense, and prayers are common practices to invoke the deity’s blessings.
How can I increase my luck and fortune at a God of Wealth temple?
To increase your luck and fortune at a God of Wealth temple, it is recommended to make sincere prayers and offerings. Focus your intentions on your financial aspirations and express gratitude for the blessings received.
Are these temples open to visitors of all faiths?
Yes, these temples are open to visitors of all faiths. People from diverse backgrounds visit these temples to seek blessings and experience the cultural and spiritual significance associated with the God of Wealth.
Are there any specific rituals or customs to follow at these temples?
While specific rituals may vary, it is common to light incense, offer fruits, flowers, and other symbolic items, and make respectful prayers at God of Wealth temples. Following the temple rules and showing reverence to the deity are also important.
Can I make specific wishes related to wealth and prosperity at these temples?
Yes, you can make specific wishes related to wealth and prosperity at these temples. It is believed that sincere prayers and focused intentions can help align energies and attract positive financial outcomes.
Which god is powerful for wealth?
The God of Wealth, also known as Caishen, is considered powerful for wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture. Devotees seek blessings from this deity for financial abundance and success in their endeavors.
