Chéng huáng miào literally means 'City God Temple' — a traditional Chinese Taoist or folk religious temple dedicated to the Chéng Huáng, the tutelary deity believed to protect a specific city or town. The character 城 (chéng) means 'city wall' or 'walled city', 隍 (huáng) refers to the moat surrounding the city wall, and 庙 (miào) means 'temple' or 'shrine'. Together, they signify a sacred space honoring the spiritual guardian of an urban area.

These temples were historically central to local governance and community life: officials reported to the City God before taking office, and citizens prayed for protection, justice, and prosperity. Today, many chéng huáng miào have been restored as cultural landmarks or tourist sites, especially in historic districts like Shanghai’s Yuyuan Garden area or Xi’an’s ancient city. They often host festivals, incense offerings, and theatrical performances during the City God’s birthday.