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Thian Hock Keng Temple

158 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore,

Description

Thian Hock Keng or Tianfu Temple (meaning "Palace of Heavenly Happiness") is a Hokkien temple for the worship of Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea. It was built on Telok Ayer in the mid-19th century by seafarers and immigrants as a thank for a safe sea voyage - at the time it was situated on the coastline (things have somewhat changed). The temple consists of several pavilions clustered around a main courtyard and is designed in traditional Fujian style, including dragons on the roofs, colourful tiles, stone lions and door gods/threshold guardians. A smaller shrine to Guanyin, the goddess of Mercy, is located at the back.

Access & Transport

Telok Ayer MRT station (Downtown line) is only 150m away and there are several bus services stopping on Cross Street or Robinson Rd.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining a visit there with a discovery of the Telok Ayer/Amoy Street neighbourhood and then Chinatown with possibly other temples such as Sri Mariamman or Buddha Tooth Relic.

Meta review

Positive reviews from visitors who enjoy the authenticity and heritage / history of the temple. There are no negative reviews per se but for many is it quite small with nothing amazing that warrants a detour.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral and part of the city's cultural heritage.

Conclusion

This small Tianfu temple is an excellent example among the many erected to Mazu by the Hokkien / Fujianese seafarers. It is not imposing or spectacular, but is situated in an interesting and lively neighbourhood. It also provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to learn more about the culture and history about the early immigrants to Singapore.

Key positive

Easy to get to and in a touristy area (i.e. small time investment)

Good place to see the locals worship

Key negative

Nothing impressive

Suitability

No religious denomination restrictions. Visitors with reduced mobility may find it challenging to go inside as there are a few small steps at the entrance.

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:0h 45m

Regulated hours

Monday07:30 - 17:00

Tuesday07:30 - 17:00

Wednesday07:30 - 17:00

Thursday07:30 - 17:00

Friday07:30 - 17:00

Saturday07:30 - 17:00

Sunday07:30 - 17:00

Pricing
Free

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