Thian Hock Keng Temple

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  • Address
    158 Telok Ayer St, Chinatown
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  • Phone
    6423 4616
  • Transport
    underground rail: Chinatown, Tanjong Pagar, Raffles Place

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Lonely Planet review

Also known as the Temple of Heavenly Happiness, Thian Hock Keng Temple is one of Singapore's oldest and most eye-popping temples. Dedicated to Ma Cho Po, goddess of the sea, it was built by early Chinese Hokkien immigrants in gratitude for safe passage to Singapore. It's hard to imagine now, but Telok Ayer St was once Chinatown's waterfront before land reclamation shunted the shore 500m east.

Declared a National Monument in 1973 and renovated in 2000, the temple's twin rooftop dragons represent the principles of yin and yang. Stone lions guard the door, and - as security back-up - fierce-looking portraits of door gods prevent evil spirits from entering. Inside, gilded ceilings feature intricate carvings of Chinese folkloric stories and heroes.