Worshippers on Friday flocked to Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin to pray for good fortune and prosperity in the Year of the Snake.

According to Chinese traditions, people tend to avoid visiting family and friends on the third day of the Lunar New Year when quarrels are believed to be more likely.

Police implemented crowd control measures as devotees queued to offer prayers and buy pinwheels, a traditional blessing item at the temple.

One worshipper told RTHK that she's there to pray for good health.

"The crowd seems smaller compared to last year, probably because many people are travelling abroad or up north," she said.

A pinwheel vendor who usually prices the items at HK$68 said sales are down by 60 to 70 percent compared to previous years.

He was upbeat about the SAR's economic prospects, comparing the city to a phoenix.

"I hope Hong Kong will thrive and return to its former glory. After all, Hong Kong is a phoenix that never dies. It's normal to have ups and downs," he said.