Situated on Kau Sai Chau (Island), Sai Kung, Hung Shing Temple is a typical example of traditional temple architecture. Hung Shing is a deity who provides protection at sea, and the construction of the temple was funded by donations from local residents whose livelihood relied mainly on fishing. According to local history and the stone tablet at the temple, the building was built before 1889. Serving the district of Kau Sai Chau, the temple has long been a place in which to pray for the safety of fishermen, but it also fulfils the social function of strengthening community cohesion. Large-scale celebrations are held every year by the locals to mark the birthday of Hung Shing.
Hung Shing Temple is a two-hall, three-bay structure with a dong-chung door in the front hall. Altars are placed in the main hall where the deities Hung Shing, Choi Pak Shing Kwan and Shui Sin Yeuh are worshipped.
A recent restoration project sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club and supervised by the Antiquities and Monuments Office restored the building to its original design. Completed in 2000 with the full support and active participation of the local villagers, it won the Outstanding Project Award of the 2000 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation.
Hung Shing Temple was declared a monument in 2002.