Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Introduction

Thian Hock Keng Temple is a Taoist temple built in 1841 by Chinese immigrants from Fujian, China, using deities and carvings brought from China. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess who protects seafarers. The street in front of the temple, Telok Ayer Street, was once a seaside road. After the temple was built, sailors would come here to pray for safety before setting sail. The materials used to build the temple came from all over the world, including ironware from Scotland, bricks from England and Delft, and stone pillars with carved dragons from China. The temple courtyard houses many ancestral tablets, and the temple gates are guarded by massive stone lions. This serene and peaceful temple has been a place of continuous incense and worship for 150 years, often frequented by devout Chinese worshippers. As a spiritual pillar for the community, its long-standing history speaks volumes. Flanking Thian Hock Keng Temple are the Al-Abrar Mosque and Nagore Dargah Shrine, both built in the mid-19th century by Muslim immigrants from South India. Transportation

Address: 158 Telok Ayer Street Subway: EW Line, NS Line Raffles Place Station (Station No. EW14, NS26); or Tanjong Pagar Station (Station No. EW15). Walking: From South Bridge Road, head in the direction of Shenton Way, turn right onto Telok Ayer Street, and walk about 200 meters—the temple will be on your right. Alternatively, starting from Shenton Way, walk 300 meters along Banda Street in front of the Telok Ayer Food Centre, then turn left.

Singapore, Singapore