Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a large Buddhist temple and museum in the heart of Chinatown. It is built in the style of the Tang dynasty of China, and its big red building is easy to spot. Entry is free, and visitors of all faiths are welcome.

The temple takes its name from a relic that is believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. This guide explains what you will find inside and how to visit with respect.

About the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The temple is a fairly new building, completed in the 2000s. Its design is based on Buddhist architecture from the Tang dynasty. The layout also draws on the mandala, a sacred symbol of the universe in Buddhist art.

The building has several floors, and each one has a different purpose. You will find prayer halls, a museum, a relic chamber and a rooftop garden. The temple is an active place of worship. Monks and devotees pray here every day, and you will often hear chanting.

Many visitors come for the architecture and the art. Others come to learn more about Buddhism. Either way, it is one of the most popular sights in Chinatown.

What to see inside

Start in the main hall on the ground floor. It is a large, richly decorated prayer hall. A tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, the future Buddha, stands at the main altar. The walls are lined with many small Buddha figures.

Then work your way up through the building. These are the main areas to look out for.

• The museum: one floor holds a museum of Buddhist art and culture, with statues and objects from across Asia.
• The relic chamber: the tooth relic is kept in a large golden stupa on an upper floor. You can view it from a viewing area outside the inner chamber.
• The rooftop garden: a quiet garden with a pavilion that holds a large prayer wheel. Devotees turn the wheel as they pray.

Take your time. Read the information panels, and watch quietly if a ceremony is taking place.

How to get to the temple

The temple stands on South Bridge Road in Chinatown, across the road from Maxwell Food Centre. Maxwell MRT station on the Thomson-East Coast Line is the closest. Chinatown MRT station, on the North East Line and Downtown Line, is also an easy walk away. Read our tourist guide to the MRT if you are new to the trains.

The temple fits well into a walk around the area. You can combine it with our Chinatown Heritage Walk.

Tips for visiting the temple

This is a sacred place, so please follow the visitor rules. They are simple and easy to follow.

• Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid short skirts, shorts and sleeveless tops.
• Speak softly and keep your phone on silent.
• Photos are not allowed in some areas. Look out for signs and follow staff instructions.
• Do not touch statues or offerings, and do not point your feet at altars when sitting.
• Check the official website for opening hours and any special events before you go.

Visiting during a festival such as Vesak Day can be special, but expect crowds. Our etiquette and local laws guide explains more about visiting places of worship.

Food and things to do nearby

You are close to some of the best-known food in Singapore. Maxwell Food Centre across the road is a popular hawker centre. Chinatown Complex is also a short walk away. Read our guide to the best hawker centres in Singapore for tourists and our hawker centre etiquette tips.

For a sit-down meal, browse restaurants in Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar. If you prefer meat-free meals, see our vegetarian and vegan guides.

Two other historic places of worship are within walking distance. Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Thian Hock Keng Temple is a historic Chinese temple on Telok Ayer Street. Nearby hotels include Mondrian Singapore Duxton and Carlton City Hotel Singapore.

FAQs about the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple free to enter?

Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Is there a dress code?

Yes. Cover your shoulders and knees. Check the official website for the latest visitor rules.

Can I see the tooth relic?

The relic is kept inside a stupa on an upper floor. Visitors can see the stupa from a viewing area, but cannot enter the inner chamber.

How long should I spend there?

Allow one to two hours to see all the floors and the rooftop garden.