See & Do

Thian Hock Kheng Temple

In a place like Singapore, where Chinese immigrants first came in boats, there is bound to be a temple dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. The Thian Hock Keng Temple was erected in 1821 by seamen grateful for safe passage, and stands where Singapore's waterfront used to be, before the land was reclaimed.

Take in the remarkable architecture of the temple that’s been built in traditional southern Chinese architectural style, with stone, tiles and wood, dragons and phoenixes, detailed carvings, intricate sculptures and imposing columns – all amazingly assembled without nails.

You may also want to check out a plaque presented by Qing Dynasty Emperor Guang Xu in 1907, evidence of the temple's stature in both Singapore’s and China’s history and lineage.