CNY: Sze Yup Temple tour, Glebe

I've always had vague recollections of there being a temple in Glebe, but had never visited. So when I heard the City of Sydney were hosting tours of the temple as part of Chinese New Year I jumped at the chance (and wheedled an extra long lunch too).

The tour was fairly interesting but I ended up uncovering most of the following information from the Net...



The Sze Yup temple was built by early Chinese in 1898 and was originally located on market gardens.

The temple is dedicated to Kwan Ti, a warrior, legend and god all-in-one. Born a commoner as Kwan Yu, his skills saw him rise to become one of the most revered and respected military figures in Chinese history.

Famed for his strength, honour, loyalty and sense of justice, Kwan Ti was often sought for advice, guidance and protection.

Money for the temple was funded by immigrants from the Sze Yup area in the province of Kwongtung, China. Sze Yup translates as 'four counties' and collectively refers to the four counties of Xinhui (Sunwui), Taishan (Toishan), Kaiping (Hoiping), and Enping (Yanping).

Thousands of temples were built to honour him at the height of his popularity as a folk deity during the Ch'ing dynasty (1644-1912). He is also commonly revered as a patron god by the police, martial arts clubs and even Triad members. Apparently there is a shrine in his honour in every police station in Hong Kong.





Statue of Kwan Ti, who was often known as "the lord with the magnificent beard."

He is usually pictured holding a guan do, or a sword with a long handle, which was named after him. Apparently he is also usually depicted as red-faced in Chinese operas.


Inside the Chapel of Departed Friends.


Lanterns inside the Chapel of Good Fortune.






Sze Yup temple
Edward Street, Glebe

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Links for all Chinese New Year 2005 pics