Nansha Tianhou Temple, Temple of Mazu in Nansha District, China.

Nansha Tianhou Temple is a sanctuary dedicated to Mazu located in Nansha District, featuring multiple halls with intricate carvings and traditional Chinese architectural design. The complex displays detailed sculptures that depict maritime mythology and religious symbolism.

The temple began in the Ming dynasty as the Tianfei Temple. Under the Qianlong emperor it was restored and renamed Yuanjun Ancient Temple. It was damaged during the Japanese invasion in the 1940s. In 1995 Hong Kong businessman Henry Fok funded its reconstruction, and it was inaugurated on the 23rd day of the third lunar month in 1996, Mazu's birthday.

The temple serves as a spiritual center for the local fishing community, where visitors perform traditional offerings and seek blessings for safe voyages. The space reflects the deep connection between maritime life and religious practice that has shaped this region for generations.

The temple is open to visitors daily and features marked pathways with multilingual signs throughout the grounds. It can be easily reached by public transportation from central Guangzhou.

Local fishermen continue to visit the temple before setting out to sea, performing specific rituals and offerings to seek protection. This enduring practice reveals how deeply religious tradition remains woven into maritime life in the region.