Categories > Guides and Tips
A Guide to Thian Hock Keng Temple’s Historic Features That Modern-Day Visitors Will Surely Love
I have a confession to make: my first priority whenever I go to Chinatown always seems to be food. To make myself feel better about this, I started challenging myself to walk off all the calories I consume when I’m there.
Interestingly, this challenge has unintentionally helped me explore a significant chunk of Chinatown.
In fact, on one such visit, I stumbled upon a tranquil spot that has since become one of my favorite stops in the area. The Thian Hock Keng Temple is what I consider a refreshing breath of air in this restless country.
I personally think it’s a bit underrated as an attraction here in Singapore, but I’ve decided to fix that. There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to this temple, and I’m determined to shed some light on its charming qualities through this guide.
Where Is Thian Hock Keng Temple?
The address for Thian Hock Keng Temple is 158 Telok Ayer Street. It’s located within Singapore’s vibrant Chinatown district.
It stands near several other sacred places such as the Telok Ayer Methodist Church and the Al Abrar Mosque, exhibiting the rich diversity of cultures in Singapore.
How to Get to Thian Hock Keng Temple
Via MRT: You can catch the MRT and hop off either Chinatown Station (NE4/DT19) or Telok Ayer Station (DT18). Both stations are walking distance from the temple.
Via Bus: Several buses have stops that are a stone’s throw away from Thian Hock Keng Temple. Hop on any of the following bus lines: 166, 167, 131, 174, 186, 196, 97, 75, 700, 970
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: You can get to Thian Hock Keng Temple fairly easily with a hired taxi or a cab from apps like Grab and Gojek. Just input the temple as your pin and your driver can get you there.
What to Do in Thian Hock Keng Temple
Appreciate the temple’s historical architecture
Media credit: iceaxe
Everyone who’s ever laid eyes on Thian Hock Keng Temple agrees that it is a visual feast. Its striking reds and intricate patterns are even more impressive in person when you remember that they’ve been preserved for over 200 hundred years.
On your visit, you can try and play an educational version of ‘Where’s Waldo’. But instead of Waldo, you have to find some of the temple’s most remarkable details.
You can keep an eye out for Chinese elements such as masterfully crafted phoenixes, dragons, and divine beings. As an extra challenge, look out for colorful pieces of porcelain on the roof, as this is a special design technique from Southern China.
This little game is a fun and simple way to admire architecture without having to be an expert. You can even do this with the family to involve younger members—just make sure to remind them to stay respectful of their surroundings.
Stroll around the courtyard
Media credit: cozzzzzzzzy3
Although this section of the temple is perhaps the most crowded, it’s still one of the most serene spots in all of Chinatown. This is where both tourists and temple worshippers stroll around for some peace and quiet.
Here, you’ll be surrounded by abundant foliage, artistic columns, and exquisite statues. Walking through the pathways will have you feeling like you’ve been transported into another era.
The courtyard is also the only part of the temple where you can freely take pictures. So find your favorite angle and snap away to keep a lasting memory of this magnificent temple.
Perform a wish-making ritual
Media credit: travelfoodfuntime
As ‘The Palace of Heavenly Happiness’, Thian Hock Keng Temple is also known for a key feature in the courtyard: a wishing well. All visitors, even tourists, are welcome to make a wish.
All you have to do is to light an incense stick at the temple, and then ring one of the bells at the well. The bells have signs with descriptions above them to indicate what blessing they’re for.
If you don’t speak Chinese, you can approach any of the workers at the temple and they can translate these signs for you.
There is a condition, though: it’s better to ask for non-material wishes such as good health. If you ask for riches, you have to return and donate a significant portion of what you receive.
Join a guided tour
Media credit: david.n.thong
If you’re interested in learning more about the temple, you’re in luck because Thian Hock Keng offers free guided tours.
This group tour provides deeper insights into the temple’s construction, design, and customs. It also discusses what went into years of restoration and preservation to keep the temple as splendid as it is today.
To join a guided tour, you have to pre-register with a group of at least 40 people a few weeks beforehand. This activity is possible with a community group, an organization, or a travel tour group.
Where to Eat near Thian Hock Keng Temple
Royz Et Vous
Media credit: royzetvous
Address: 137 Telok Ayer Street, #01-01
Phone: +65 6293 0270
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 3:15 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:15 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 3:15 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:15 PM
Royz Et Vous is the answer to all of your halal food cravings. This restaurant masterfully blends Western and Asian flavors into one superb menu.
If you’re eating here for the first time, make sure to get their smoked duck breasts. It’s enough to turn any casual diner into a repeat customer.
Any coffee connoisseur should also take note and put this place on their radar. Royz Et Vous specializes in brewed coffee and their cold brew is guaranteed to be an instant favorite.
Fu Lin Bar & Kitchen
Media credit: fulinkitchen
Address: 127 Telok Ayer Street
Phone: +65 9011 5810
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – Closed
Fu Lin Bar & Kitchen is a gastronomic 2-in-1 with an impressive selection of Sichuan and Singaporean meals. During the day, it serves its signature Yong Tau Foo dish, and at night, it turns into a trendy bar where Singaporean youngsters hang out.
This restaurant is also great for those looking for stronger flavors. Apart from being delicious, their Firecracker Chicken has a kick to it that true spice lovers will enjoy.
The Chinese-inspired decor is fitting, considering that it’s located right across from Thian Hock Keng Temple. It sets up the perfect ambiance for a chill night full of cocktails and tasty skewers.
Where to Stay near Thian Hock Keng Temple
The Scarlet Singapore
Media credit: thescarletsingapore
Address: 33 Erskine Road
Phone: +65 6511 3333
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Scarlet Singapore is made special by the rich history within its walls. Its historical architecture, preserved all the way back from World War II, has been equipped with all of today’s luxuries to ensure a cozy stay for its guests.
Apart from the conserved elements, the decor in this hotel has been carefully curated to fit in with its address. It really is the perfect place to stay for exploring all of what Chinatown has to offer.
If you wish to stay in though, The Scarlet Singapore will take care of all your needs. Their staff will go above and beyond for you, and the free refillable minibar is the cherry on top.
Parkroyal Collection Pickering
Media credit: parkroyalcollectionpickering
Address: 3 Upper Pickering Street
Phone: +65 6809 8888
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Parkroyal Collection Pickering is an architectural marvel where innovative design meets unmatched comfort. Its facade is famous for its eco-friendly layout, with lush greenery adorning asymmetrical terraces.
The foliage is enough to trick anyone that they’re still in the middle of an urban area. In fact, swimming in the infinity pool provides a unique vantage point with guests being able to overlook the city while being surrounded by abundant plant life.
All of this hotel’s guests are also well taken care of when it comes to amenities. Apart from a discount when dining in at Lime Restaurant, they also get free guided classes for Zumba, yoga, and more.
