Sacred Temples
Journey through the spiritual heart of Chinatown, where centuries of devotion and divine architecture create sacred spaces for all faiths
Major Temples & Religious Sites
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Magnificent Tang Dynasty-style Buddhist temple and museum completed in 2007. Houses the sacred Buddha tooth relic in a 320 kg solid gold stupa.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Singapore oldest Hindu temple, established in 1827. Dedicated to goddess Mariamman, known for curing epidemic illnesses. The striking gopuram is covered with colorful sculptures.
Masjid Jamae (Chulia)
Masjid Jamae, also known as Chulia Mosque, is one of Singapore's oldest mosques, built in 1826 by Chulia Muslims from the Coromandel Coast of India.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Built in 1839 without nails, Thian Hock Keng is Singapore oldest Hokkien temple. Dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess, it was the first stop for Chinese immigrants.
Other Sacred Sites
Nagore Durgha
A unique Muslim shrine built by Tamil Muslims in 1828-1830, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture with minarets and Islamic motifs.
Wak Hai Cheng Bio
Also known as Yueh Hai Ching Temple, this Teochew temple was built in the 1850s and dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea.
Al-Abrar Mosque (Kuchu Palli)
Built in 1827 by Tamil Muslims, this National Monument mosque is also known as the 'Indian Mosque' and served the early Muslim community in Chinatown.
Hong San See Temple
A National Monument Hokkien temple built between 1908-1913, dedicated to Guang Ze Zun Wang with Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) altar. Features traditional Southern Chinese architectural elements.
Temple Visiting Guide
Dress Code
Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes when entering sacred areas.
Photography
Generally allowed in courtyards, but check for specific restrictions in prayer halls.
Prayers & Offerings
Incense and prayer items available for purchase. Follow local customs and be respectful.
Best Times
Early morning (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM) for peaceful visits.
Cultural Insights
Religious Harmony: Chinatown showcases Singapore's religious diversity with Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, and Muslim places of worship coexisting.
Festival Seasons: Temples are especially vibrant during Chinese New Year, Vesak Day, and Deepavali celebrations.
Architectural Styles: Each temple reflects its origin - Southern Chinese, Tamil, or Islamic architectural traditions.
Nearby Attractions
Temple Trail Experience
Follow this suggested route to experience the diversity of Chinatown's spiritual heritage
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Start with the most magnificent Buddhist temple
45-60 minutes
Sri Mariamman Temple
Experience Hindu traditions and architecture
30-45 minutes
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Visit Singapore's oldest Chinese temple
30-45 minutes
Nagore Durgha
End with this unique Muslim shrine
20-30 minutes
Plan Your Temple Visit
Experience the spiritual diversity and architectural beauty of Chinatown's sacred spaces