[2025 Singapore Attraction] Travel Guide for Thian Hock Keng Temple (Updated Oct)

Thian Hock Keng Temple, dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore and a significant cultural heritage site. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Eastern culture. Visitors can marvel at the stunning traditional Southern Chinese architectural style, intricate carvings, and statues of dragons, phoenixes, and deities, as well as the colorful glazed tiles adorning the roof ridge—a decorative technique from Fujian province. Remarkably, the temple was originally constructed without using a single nail and is now a designated National Monument. Early Chinese immigrants once performed rituals here to thank the goddess for safe passage across the South China Sea. Most visitors come to pray for peace, love, marital harmony, and fertility. Don't miss the ancient well at the back of the temple—ring the bell, make a wish, and toss a coin through the bell for good fortune.

#wheretogo #tripblazers Where to go? If you are looking to visit the sea of Goddess Temple, you will have to visit the temple at Thian hock Keng temple in Singapore. The sea of Goddess is believed to protect the fishermen who have gone to the deep sea ocean with a great harvest for the year to come. The temple was one of the oldest temples in Singapore, and it was gazetted as a national monument in the 1970s era. It is definitely a must visit temple here. You will see crowds of tourists alighting from their tour buses to visit this iconic temple. The address is 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613. Be sure to visit them before closing at 5pm.

#wheretogo #tripblazers Where to go? If you are someone who is interested in finding out more about Singapore culture, you should visit the Confucius birthday at the Buddhist temple. There will be rituals praying organized by the Buddhist temple, as well as the performance by their cultural dance group. It is really a great day to find out more about the Confucius and to celebrate this special day with him. Visiting the Buddhist temple is free of admission. But for the Confucius birthday event, there will be a ten dollar fee to join in the celebration on this special day. You can come join in the fun next year if you have missed it this year.

Singapore attractions, Chinatown, Telok Ayer Street Worship Buddha, see the old Chinese temple. This temple was built without using a single nail. It is now registered as a national monument and is managed by the Hokkien Association of Singapore. People like to worship "Mother of the Ruby". Focus on asking for blessings of love, smoothness in married life and asking for children. 🙏 📌Walk from Chinatown. But if anyone wants to come here, you must go to MRT Telok Ayer, Exit A. It's the closest. #Singapore attractions #Valentine's Day attractions

#meetsingapore #fallingforfall #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #passionpassport #bucketlistreboot #singapore Thian Hock Keng Temple is a Singaporean Mazu temple built in a traditional Chinese design. The temple is located in the Singaporean Chinatown among other beautiful Chinese-style buildings and houses. It is the most important worship place for Hokkien community in Singapore. Colorfol red lanterns and charming courtyard combined with unique temple decorations make this place a must-see attraction in Singapore. A visit in the temple can be easily combined with a short trip to the stunning Singaporean Chinatown (including lots of wonderful Chinese houses) as well as Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Sea, the most famous attractions of the Singaporean island, which is close to Thian Hock Keng Temple.

#Singapore Attractions Built in 1840, Tin Hock Temple ~ has a history of more than 170 years, and is the oldest Taoist temple in Singapore. The temple is not very big, but the interior is very grand and many people come to visit. There is a wishing well inside, hung with several rattles☺️ representing good health, everything goes well, happy marriage, etc. After visiting the temple, don’t forget that behind the Tianfu Palace, a very large mural was painted on the entire 40-meter-long exterior wall, showing the life stories of early Fujian immigrants in Singapore #OverseasTravel

#meetsingapore A Chinese temple located at TELOK Ayer street nearest mrt Telok Ayer ( downtown / blue line) with 200 m walk. free entry

Address - 5 min walk from MRT Telok Ayer A 180+-year-old Taoist Temple located in the bustling downtown of vibrant Singapore. Other than the temple, the whole neighborhood is well preserved in traditional Nanyang architecture. For anyone that has an interest in history, it will be a good place to visit. #urbanexplorer

Address - Thian Hock Keng Temple, 158 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068613 Thian Hock Keng Temple was established in 1973 and is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Singapore, where it used to be on the edge of the shore and beyond it was all sea! Now that Singapore has reclaimed some land, it currently appears further inland. People back then came to pray for or thank Mazu, a sea goddess, for a safe journey across the sea. Another shrine here is also dedicated to the goddess, Guan Yin. There are also various other deities placed within the temple. My overall rating of the experience: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #exploresgtogether #momentssg #tripmoments #localhistory #temple #heritage #singapore

Try the Singapore specialties at Chong Wen Ge Café. I can defiantly recommend the signature laksa soup and the Nyonya dishes! After returning from a previous trip to Singapore, my weight shot up because there are so many delicious things to eat!!! What I miss the most is the Nyonya cuisine at Chong Wen Ge Café! Shop name: Chong Wen Ge Cafe (Chong Wen Ge Cafe) Address: Located on the Bainian Old Street Telok Ayer Street (Telok Ayer Street) Special dishes: Nonya rice noodles, satay rice noodles, curry chicken, and sambal shrimp rice... Recommendation: Singapore’s Nyonya cuisine is most famous for laksa soup, so be sure to order an authentic signature laksa! It’s made with noodles, fish cakes, shrimp, oysters, crushed bean sprouts, and spicy coconut soup. If you're familiar with Malay laksa, Singapore laksa is slightly different with its sour and spicy flavor! If you’ve been to Thailand, you will definitely be familiar with this taste, because it’s rather like Tom Yum Goong soup If you don’t eat spicy food, Nyonya pastries are another great choice. All the special Nyonya pastries and food are homemade. Most of them are made of glutinous rice flour or cassava, and you can taste a thick coconut milk flavor Shop environment: Chong Wen Ge Café is located in the centuries-old Tianfu Palace. Visit the small outdoor pavilion where you can enjoy the scenery while leisurely eating and drinking tea. Chong Wen Ge Café is popular with many locals so just ask around if you have trouble finding the way. Recommended itinerary: Eat breakfast at Chong Wen Ge Café in the morning, and experience the S.E.A Aquarium in the afternoon. Transportation is convenient so you should add it to your itinerary! Not only can you eat classic laksa, you can also taste ultra-authentic Nyonya food and pastries. Plus the coffee is also very popular. It is one of the few places in the city center to experience true Nyonya culture!

📌In the midst of Singapore's non-stop hustle, Thian Hock Keng Temple stands as a peaceful sanctuary that feels worlds away from the surrounding buzz. This stunning Hokkien temple in Chinatown is where you go when you need to hit pause in the city chaos. 🙏 The intricate architecture and serene courtyards create the perfect setting for quiet reflection. There's something deeply calming about wandering through this historic space - it's like the outside world just melts away. Whether you're into meditation or simply need a moment to clear your head, this temple delivers. ✨ What strikes me most is the contrast: outside, Singapore pulses with energy; inside, time seems to slow down. It's a rare pocket of tranquility that reminds you to breathe, think, and just be present. If you're looking for a meaningful escape without leaving the city, this is your spot. Trust me, your mind will thank you. 💯 #ThianHockKeng #SingaporeHiddenGems #TempleVibes #ChinatownSingapore

#SingaporeTravel #SingaporeAttractions #BeautifulChineseTemples #SingaporeTravelByYourself - Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. Built to honor Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, it is a significant religious site for the Hokkien people. The temple boasts beautiful Hokkien architecture, constructed without a single nail. It is well-known for offering prayers for love, smooth marriages, and children. It's easily accessible via the MRT Blue Line, alighting at Telok Ayer Station and following the signs. The temple is located right on the roadside, making it easy to find.

- This temple was built in 1839 with financial support from prominent Hokkien people, including the philanthropist Tan Tock Seng. Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. - Nagore Dargah Indian Muslim Heritage Centre was established by South Indian Muslims who migrated to Singapore in the 19th century. - Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum is located in the historic Chinatown district. It features beautifully designed interiors and exhibits Buddhist art, while also telling culturally valuable historical stories that are thousands of years old. This temple was built in 2007.

From the Johor Bahru-Singapore trip that lasted 3 days and 2 nights, today I’ll review a 1 Day Trip in Singapore from morning till evening. Here’s where we went!
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📍List of places visited in 1 day 
• Thian Hock Keng Temple in Chinatown
• Nanyang Old Coffee in Chinatown
• Singapore Gift Gate in Chinatown
• Library Orchard at Orchard Gateway
• Solage Studios at Orchard Gateway
• Parliament of Singapore for some photos with the riverside view
• Funan Mall
• Pop Mart
• Action City (next to Pop Mart)
• Xiao Long Kan at Bugis Mall 
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⭐️ It may seem like a packed schedule for 1 day, but since the places aren’t far from each other, we mostly walked following Google Maps.
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We spent time at each spot without rushing, taking photos and exploring until satisfied before moving on. The trip lasted from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, making it very worthwhile. 
—- By myself, on my own

#tesaruonbudget Thian Hock Keng is one of Singapore’s oldest Chinese temples and is completely free to visit. Located in the Telok Ayer area, this temple is a peaceful and spiritual spot, featuring beautiful carvings, traditional architecture, and history dating back to the 1800s. It’s a great place to learn about Taoism and Hokkien traditions. With no entry fee and a serene atmosphere, it’s a perfect short stop for those exploring Chinatown on a budget.

Stepping into Thian Hock Keng Temple, you journey back to a time when Chinese immigrants gave thanks here after surviving perilous sea voyages. This architectural gem—Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temple—boasts intricate dragons, phoenixes, and stunning Southern Chinese craftsmanship, all assembled without a single nail! Amid fragrant incense and carved guardians, the temple whispers tales of hope, faith, and perseverance. Nestled along Telok Ayer Street’s heritage stretch, it perfectly bridges the old with the new, offering visitors a rare glimpse of Singapore’s multicultural past within its modern metropolis. A must-visit cultural stop on every #singaporeguide itinerary!

#singaporeguide If you’re exploring Singapore and wondering what to see, don’t miss Thian Hock Keng Temple—a stunning reminder of the city’s rich cultural roots. Nestled in the heart of Telok Ayer, this majestic Chinese temple stands proudly amid gleaming skyscrapers, offering a striking contrast between tradition and modernity. Built in 1842 without a single nail, it features intricate carvings, colorful tiles, and sweeping curved roofs. The temple was originally a place of worship for early Hokkien Chinese immigrants, who came here to give thanks for safe sea voyages. Step inside to admire the ornate interiors and feel the spiritual depth of a space that has witnessed centuries of migration and faith. It’s a peaceful, historical gem in the bustling cityscape.

#summervacay Located in the heart of Singapore’s Chinatown, Thian Hock Keng stands as a proud testament to the city’s rich Chinese heritage. Built in 1842, this stunning Hokkien temple is dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the goddess of the sea. Step through its ornate gates and find yourself surrounded by intricate carvings, majestic dragons and peaceful courtyards. With every detail lovingly preserved, Thian Hock Keng offers a window into Singapore’s past, inviting you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the city’s cultural roots. It’s a must-visit for those seeking history and beauty in one stop. #jammerstheexplorer #singapore

#springitinerary During my Singapore Citywalk, I explored Telok Ayer Street and visited the renowned Thian Hock Keng Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temple. Established between 1839 and 1842 by early Chinese immigrants, the temple was dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, as a gesture of gratitude for safe sea voyages. Constructed in the traditional Southern Fujian architectural style without the use of nails, the temple features intricate carvings, curved roof ridges adorned with dragons, and vibrant ceramic tiles. Recognized as a National Monument in 1973, Thian Hock Keng stands as a testament to Singapore’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.   

#springitinerary During my Day 2 citywalk in Telok Ayer, I discovered the majestic Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temples and a designated National Monument. Built in 1842, it was a place of prayer for early Chinese immigrants giving thanks for safe sea voyages. The temple’s architecture is truly captivating—featuring traditional Southern Chinese design, intricate dragon and phoenix carvings, colorful tiles, and detailed woodwork, all constructed without nails. Stepping into its peaceful courtyard felt like a journey into Singapore’s cultural roots. Rich in history and artistry, Thian Hock Keng is a must-visit landmark for heritage lovers and curious explorers alike.

#springitinerary Wander through the historic streets of Telok Ayer in Singapore and uncover the cultural gem that is Thian Hock Keng Temple, a National Monument and must-visit destination. Built in 1842, it’s one of the oldest and most important Hokkien temples in Singapore, originally serving seafarers giving thanks for safe passage. With its intricate southern Chinese architectural design—elaborate carvings, sweeping roofs, and guardian dragons—the temple stands as a stunning tribute to traditional craftsmanship. This city walk offers the perfect mix of heritage, architecture, and serenity, making it an essential stop on any meaningful exploration of Singapore’s rich multicultural history.

#springitinerary If you came to Thian Hock Keng Temple in the afternoon, you can try out having lunch or snacks at Le Shan Cafe which is just on the side. Here they serve traditional Singaporean dishes like Laksa, Chicken Curry or Chicken Rendang for Mains. For desert, you must absolutely try their Nyonya Chendol. It is the perfect refreshment to cool down from Singapore's tropical weather. The cafe also has traditional Peranakan and Nyonya decorations and artefacts from ages past. Address: 168 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068619 #visitsingapore #leshancafe

#singaporeguide One of the beautiful temples in Chinatown, Singapore is Thian Hock Keng Temple. Located in 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613, it is a splendid Temple built in traditional chinese architecture. It is covered with ornate dragon designs giving it its distinctive oriental look. The walls and ceilings are covered with traditional chinese paintings depicting the guardian animals and other tapestries. It is really well maintained and clean and the staff has done tremendous job for its maintenance. It is located on a peaceful and quiet surrounding making temple worshippers the serenity to reflect and pray. This place should be part of every Singapore Itinerary especially since it is close to the other landmarks like Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

#cherryblossom25 Be sure to visit the famous thian hock keng temple which is just a five to ten minutes walk away from the telok Ayer train station. There are several temples around the corner that you can visit. They close during the late afternoon. The best time to visit would be before 3pm .Be sure to offer your prayers there and pray sincerely with your heart.

#singaporetrip Stepping into Thian Hock Keng feels like time-traveling to 1840s Singapore—back when this was literally waterfront property (before land reclamation shoved the sea away). The moment I passed its hand-carved dragon pillars, the scent of sandalwood incense and salty air hit me—a reminder that this temple once blessed thousands of sailors before they braved the oceans. The "No Way" Moment 🤯 The main altar’s gold-leaf goddess Mazu (protector of seafarers) is stunning, but the REAL surprise? The hidden second floor! Most miss it, but climb the narrow staircase to find: A secret shrine to Confucius (because why not?) Ship-shaped rafters—nod to its sailing roots Killer views of Telok Ayer’s shophouses Temple Hack: Spot the Pirate Proof 🏴☠️ Check the courtyard’s stone tablets—they’re thank-you notes from 19th-century sailors who survived storms. One even mentions escaping "Malay pirates" (!!). Talk about Yelp reviews with stakes. Eats Nearby: "After-Temple" Fuel 🍜 5-min walk: The famous Amoy Street Food Centre—order hokkien mee (squid-infused noodles) or kaya toast at a 100-year-old kopitiam. Thirsty? Grab chendol (coconutty shaved ice) from the pushcart uncle outside. Blitz Itinerary � ⏰ 10AM: Arrive pre-lunch crowd ⏰ 10:30AM: Light joss sticks + hunt pirate artifacts ⏰ 11:15AM: Climb to secret floor ⏰ 12PM: Stuff face at Amoy Street Why It’s Cooler Than Your Average Temple ✅ Free entry (unlike some ahem tourist traps) ✅ Mixed信仰: Taoist gods + Buddhist bodhisattvas + Confucius all chill here ✅ Pet-friendly courtyard (saw a corgi getting blessed—10/10) Final Thought: This temple’s layers of history (pirates! sailors! land reclamation!) make it Singapore’s ultimate "hidden-in-plain-sight" adventure. And yes, I totally pretended to be a Qing-era merchant for 20 minutes. Which Singapore temple surprises you most? Comment below! 👇 #SGSecretHistory (P.S. The resident cat’s name is Captain—obviously.)

#singaporetrip Thian Hock Keng is a remarkable heritage site in Singapore that showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the nation. As one of the oldest Hakka temples dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the goddess of the sea, it stands as a testament to the perseverance and faith of early Chinese immigrants. The intricate architecture, with its ornate carvings and traditional roof design, transports visitors to a bygone era. Stepping inside, you’ll find a serene atmosphere that invites reflection and reverence. The temple is not only a spiritual haven but also a cultural hub, often hosting community events that celebrate Chinese traditions. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Thian Hock Keng offers a unique glimpse into Singapore's past and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the vibrant heritage of the city.

#SingaporeItinerary Thian Hock Keng Temple is located in Chinatown and is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Singapore. It deifies Mazu and was a holy place for early Chinese immigrants to pray before they went to sea. This temple was built in 1842 without using a single nail. It adopts the Fujian architectural technique and has exquisite carved beams, painted buildings, and flying eaves. It is one of the few buildings in Singapore that retains its traditional style. The temple is filled with incense and has a solemn atmosphere. In addition to Mazu, other gods such as Guandi and Guanyin are also enshrined. Visitors can observe a combination of Chinese and Western decorative styles, such as Western-style tiles blended with traditional Chinese roof decorations. If you are interested in the history and religious culture of Chinese immigrants, Thian Hock Keng Temple is definitely an important place to gain in-depth understanding of the spiritual beliefs of early immigrants. You can explore Chinatown Old Street together to experience the Chinese culture of Singapore.

#SingaporeAttractions Singapore is a world-renowned travel and holiday destination, attracting thousands of tourists every day. There are many mural spots in Singapore, and this time we introduce a mural located in the city center: the mural by artist Yip Yiu Chung on the rear wall of Thian Hock Keng Temple. Free to visit and take photos 📸, no tickets required. The attraction is close to bus stops, making transportation very convenient. These murals are located on various streets in Chinatown and on the rear wall of Thian Hock Keng Temple on Telok Ayer Street. The artist is Singaporean painter Yip Yiu Chung. Each painting is vivid and realistically reflects the lifestyle of Singaporeans from that era!

Singapore is a dazzling mix of tradition and innovation, where vibrant painted houses meet awe-inspiring temples. Whether you're a culture enthusiast or just love exploring vibrant streets, Singapore has something for everyone! Colorful Painted Houses 🌈🏠 One of the most charming aspects of Singapore’s heritage neighborhoods is the colorful painted houses. In areas like Kampong Glam and Little India, you'll find streets lined with buildings in every shade imaginable! These brightly colored homes and shopfronts reflect the nation’s multicultural spirit and make for fantastic photo ops! 📸✨ Temples of Tranquility 🛕🙏 Singapore is also home to beautiful temples that offer a peaceful escape. Visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, the city’s oldest Hindu temple, with its intricate carvings and towering gopuram (gateway). For a more serene experience, head to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of the oldest and most significant Chinese temples in Singapore. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture are a perfect blend of history and spirituality. 🕊️🌿 From its colorful streets to its sacred temples, Singapore offers an unforgettable journey of discovery and culture. Pack your bags and explore this dynamic city where tradition meets modern marvels! 🌟 #singaporetrips