Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest and most important Hokkien temple in Singapore. It stands on Telok Ayer Street, between Chinatown and the business district. Entry is free, and respectful visitors are welcome.

The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea. For early Chinese settlers, it was a place to give thanks after a safe voyage. This guide covers its history, what to look for and how to plan your visit.

History of Thian Hock Keng Temple

The present temple was built between 1839 and 1842, on the site of an earlier, simpler shrine. It was built by the Hokkien community, whose families came from Fujian province in south-east China. The name means Palace of Heavenly Happiness.

At that time, Telok Ayer Street ran along the shore. Sailors and traders landed nearby and came to the temple to thank Mazu for their safe journey. Land reclamation later moved the sea far away. Today the temple sits among offices and shophouses.

Skilled craftsmen built the temple with materials brought from China. It was also a centre for the Hokkien community for many years. The temple is now a national monument, and its careful restoration won a UNESCO heritage award.

What to see at the temple

Thian Hock Keng follows a traditional southern Chinese design. Halls and courtyards are laid out in a line, one behind the other. Take time to look at the details as you walk through.

• The roof: dragons and other figures made from colourful pieces of porcelain decorate the roof ridges.
• The entrance doors: large painted door gods guard the main entrance.
• The main hall: the statue of Mazu sits here, surrounded by offerings and incense.
• The rear hall: this hall is dedicated to Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy.
• Carvings: look for detailed stone and wood carvings on the pillars, beams and walls.

The courtyards let in light and air. They are good places to stand back and look at the roofs.

How to get to Thian Hock Keng Temple

The temple is on Telok Ayer Street. Telok Ayer MRT station on the Downtown Line is the closest, just a short walk away. You can also walk from Chinatown MRT station or Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Read How to Use the MRT in Singapore for help with tickets and routes.

Telok Ayer Street is also home to Al-Abrar Mosque, Nagore Dargah and Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church. Walking down one street, you pass places of worship for several faiths. It shows how different communities have lived side by side here for a long time.

Tips for visiting

The temple is a working place of worship. Please keep these points in mind.

• Dress modestly, with your shoulders and knees covered.
• Speak quietly and do not disturb people who are praying.
• Step over the raised wooden thresholds at the doorways rather than standing on them.
• Ask before taking photos of worshippers, and avoid using flash.
• Check the official website for opening hours and festival dates.

The temple can be busy during Chinese New Year and on the birthday of Mazu. These are interesting times to visit, but expect crowds. See What's Open During Chinese New Year in Singapore? if you are visiting then.

Food and things to do nearby

The area around Telok Ayer has lots of food. Amoy Street Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat are both within walking distance. They are popular with office workers at lunch, so go a little earlier or later. Read our hawker centre etiquette tips before you go. For restaurants, browse restaurants in Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar.

Nearby sights include Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Singapore City Gallery, which explains how the city has been planned. If you need a place to stay, Oasia Hotel Downtown and Sofitel Singapore City Centre are in the Tanjong Pagar area. See our Chinatown guides for more ideas.

FAQs about Thian Hock Keng Temple

Is Thian Hock Keng Temple free to enter?

Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Who is worshipped at the temple?

The main deity is Mazu, the goddess of the sea. Other deities, including Guan Yin, are also worshipped here.

How old is the temple?

The present building dates from 1839 to 1842, and an earlier shrine stood on the site before that. It is one of the oldest temples in Singapore.

What is the nearest MRT station?

Telok Ayer MRT station on the Downtown Line is the closest.