Kanti Chinese Temple
A unique Chinese temple in Papeete, known for its exterior zodiac statues and surprising tennis court backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Temple is open, cultural events
Kanti Chinese Temple
Best Time
Temple is open, cultural events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Chinese temple in Papeete, known for its exterior zodiac statues and surprising tennis court backdrop.
"Discover the quirky charm of a temple next to tennis courts, a truly unique Papeete experience."
📸 Exterior Photo Ops
Focus on the exterior zodiac statues; interior photography is prohibited.
🎾 Tennis Court Surprise
Check out the Chonwa Tennis Club behind the temple for a unique view and vibe.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zodiac Animal Statues
Find your birth year's animal among the charming statues adorning the temple's exterior.
Chonwa Tennis Club View
Discover the unexpected blue tennis courts behind the temple, offering a unique vista.
Temple Gardens
Enjoy a moment of tranquility in the temple gardens, a peaceful escape from the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Temple Access
Beyond the Temple Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Exterior Photo Ops
Focus on the exterior zodiac statues; interior photography is prohibited.
🎾 Tennis Court Surprise
Check out the Chonwa Tennis Club behind the temple for a unique view and vibe.
🚶♀️ Walk from Market
It's a pleasant 20-minute walk from the Papeete Sunday Market.
⏰ Quick Visit
The temple visit itself is quite brief, best combined with other activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Exterior Photo Ops
Focus on the exterior zodiac statues; interior photography is prohibited.
🎾 Tennis Court Surprise
Check out the Chonwa Tennis Club behind the temple for a unique view and vibe.
🚶♀️ Walk from Market
It's a pleasant 20-minute walk from the Papeete Sunday Market.
⏰ Quick Visit
The temple visit itself is quite brief, best combined with other activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kanti Chinese Temple a unique stop, particularly for its exterior zodiac statues and the surprising tennis courts behind it. While the interior is small and photography is prohibited, the gardens offer a peaceful escape. It's best visited during holidays when it's open and combined with other local attractions.
"The Chinese Temple of Tennis! Nowhere in the world is a tennis club closer to a Chinese temple than Tahiti!
The temple interior is not worth photographing. (There’s a sign to remind of you of that fact.). However on the outside are small statues of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. I found mine (dragon) and took the obligatory snapshot.
You might hear tennis balls being hit behind the temple, so go check out the action and see the spectacular view.
The 2 blue tennis courts are located directly behind the temple and are not visible from the front. They belong to Chonwa Tennis Club and welcome visitors.
The temple is about a 20 minute walk from the Papeete Sunday Market. There’s not much else to do on a Sunday after the market, so stroll on over for the exterior architecture and the amazing view of tennis courts hidden at the “derrière”. (Pardon my French.)"
网球漢學家（TennisSinologist）
"Rarely open to the public, this Chinese temple is open during certain holidays. It's well worth a visit and offers a beautiful hall where a procession takes place before several small altars.
Unfortunately, photography is prohibited, but the gardens, open to the public during the holidays, offer performances and workshops to better understand Chinese culture and beliefs."
DocTst39
"The visit is very quick. Worth seeing if you pass by but don't make a detour. The exterior is pretty but the interior, which you can't take pictures of, is very small and many things are stored there (dishes, packaging, food??). To be honest, we didn't really understand if it was a temple or a storage place for parties or other things."
REBECCA CORNAC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kanti Chinese Temple is located in the heart of Papeete. It's about a 20-minute walk from the Papeete Sunday Market, making it an easy addition to your market visit.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, its central location in Papeete suggests it's likely accessible via local bus services. Walking from the market is a popular and recommended option.
Driving is possible, but parking availability in central Papeete can be challenging. Walking or using local transport is often more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the temple grounds and gardens is generally free, especially during holidays when it's open to the public. However, it's not always open, so checking for specific event dates is advised.
The temple is rarely open to the public and is typically accessible during certain holidays or special occasions. It's best to inquire locally or check event schedules for specific opening times.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. Visitors are reminded of this rule by a sign.
The gardens are usually open to the public during holidays and events without an entrance fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The exterior features charming statues of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. While the interior is small and photography is forbidden, the gardens offer a peaceful escape. A unique feature is the Chonwa Tennis Club located directly behind the temple.
Reviews suggest the interior is very small and not particularly noteworthy for photography. Some visitors found it felt more like a storage area for party supplies than a traditional temple.
Directly behind the temple are two blue tennis courts belonging to the Chonwa Tennis Club. Visitors are welcome, and the juxtaposition of a temple and tennis courts is a unique aspect of the site.
During holidays when the temple is open, the gardens may host performances and workshops aimed at understanding Chinese culture and beliefs.
A visit to the Kanti Chinese Temple is generally very quick, often described as a short stop. It's recommended to combine it with other nearby attractions like the Papeete Sunday Market.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior zodiac animal statues are a great photo opportunity. The unique view of the Chonwa Tennis Club behind the temple also makes for interesting shots.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Kanti Chinese Temple. A sign is present to remind visitors of this rule.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Juxtaposition: Temple Meets Tennis
This unique setup has been noted by visitors who appreciate the blend of cultures and activities. It’s a testament to how different facets of life can coexist in a single location, offering a memorable experience that goes beyond a typical temple visit. The sound of tennis balls being hit can even be heard from the temple grounds, adding to the sensory experience.
Understanding Temple Access and Etiquette
Inside the temple, photography is strictly forbidden, a rule clearly indicated by signage. While the interior is described as small and sometimes used for storage, the gardens are open to the public during these special occasions. These garden areas can offer a more serene experience and sometimes feature cultural performances or workshops, providing a deeper insight into Chinese traditions and beliefs.
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