Haikou Tianhou Palace

Tianhou Palace (Tian Hou Gong), located on Qilou Old Street, is also known as Tianfei Temple (天妃庙). Built during the Yuan Dynasty, it is the oldest Mazu temple in Hainan and has a history of more than 700 years.

Mazu was a real person in Chinese history. According to local accounts, she often rescued fishermen and sailors caught in storms at sea, earning the respect and admiration of coastal communities. She died at the age of 28 while helping others, and legend says that she later ascended to heaven over the sea.

Today, Mazu is widely honored as the “Goddess of the Sea” and the protector of those who travel by water. People come here to pray for safe voyages, calm seas, and good fortune.

In the past, many people heading to Southeast Asia would visit this temple before their journey to pray for a safe and successful trip. Those who returned safely would often come back to offer thanks, believing that Mazu had watched over them and helped them reunite with their families.