Jade Emperor Temple Thnee Kong Tnua
A serene Taoist temple dedicated to the supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth, offering historical charm and spiritual tranquility.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant celebrations
Jade Emperor Temple Thnee Kong Tnua
Best Time
Vibrant celebrations

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Taoist temple dedicated to the supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth, offering historical charm and spiritual tranquility.
"A great place to visit, I feel very peaceful environment. Nice scenery view."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 110 steps to the temple require good footwear. You'll be glad you listened! :athletic_shoe:
📅 Visit on Jade Emperor's Birthday
Experience the temple's most vibrant day on the 9th day of Chinese New Year. :fireworks:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Archway
Entrance
Admire the century-old stone carvings adorning the impressive archway, a stunning prelude to the temple's spiritual aura.

Ascend the 110 Steps
Path to the temple
A spiritual journey begins with this climb, offering glimpses of lush greenery and a sense of accomplishment.

The Main Altar
Main Hall
Experience the serene atmosphere and pay respects to the supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 110 steps to the temple require good footwear.
You'll be glad you listened! :athletic_shoe:📅 Visit on Jade Emperor's Birthday
Experience the temple's most vibrant day on the 9th day of Chinese New Year.
:fireworks:🗺️ Navigate with Care
Google Maps can be unreliable. Look for signs to Ayer Itam and Penang Hill.
:world_map:🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this sacred Taoist site. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 110 steps to the temple require good footwear.
You'll be glad you listened! :athletic_shoe:📅 Visit on Jade Emperor's Birthday
Experience the temple's most vibrant day on the 9th day of Chinese New Year.
:fireworks:🗺️ Navigate with Care
Google Maps can be unreliable. Look for signs to Ayer Itam and Penang Hill.
:world_map:🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this sacred Taoist site. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe the Jade Emperor Temple as a peaceful and historically significant site, with many finding the climb and the serene atmosphere rewarding. The temple's unique blend of Taoist worship managed by Buddhist monks is frequently noted. Some find the temple's location a bit tricky to pinpoint via GPS.
"The Jade Emperor diety is known to be the ultimate ruler of Heaven and Earth in the Chinese culture.
The Jade Emperor, reigns supreme in the celestial hierarchy of Chinese mythology, his legacy resonating through centuries of folklore, religious thought, and cultural identity.This divine ruler serves as an embodiment of power, morality, and justice. Presiding over heaven and earth, the Jade Emperor marked the rhythm of seasons, the fates of humans, and the activities of deities.
The Thean Kong Thnuah Temple, also known as Thni Kong Tnua or the Jade Emperor's Pavilion, is a Taoist temple within George Town in the Malaysian state of Penang. Located at Ayer Itam, the temple was completed in 1869 and is the only temple in Malaysia built specifically for the worship of the Jade Emperor. The temple becomes a focal point for the annual Jade Emperor's Birthday celebrations on the 9th day of the Chinese New Year
The temple is located at the foot of Penang Hill and is surrounded by lush greenery. The path leading up to the temple features a flight of stairs with 110 granite steps, and its archway is decorated with century-old stone carvings. The temple's architecture is a combination of both Buddhist and Taoist styles
According to Taoist belief, it was the Jade Emperor who created men. He fashioned men out of clay and left them to harden in the sun. However, it rained, causing the men to deform and thus introduce the origin of sickness and physical abnormalities. This is just one of the many stories featuring the Jade Emperor that are popular in China, and with Chinese practising Taoism.
As a result, the cat missed the chance to meet the Jade Emperor, and his place was taken over by the pig. The Jade Emperor was delighted to meet all the animals, and hence, he named the years with each of them. The cat was furious when he learned that he missed out, and from that day, the cat and the rat were enemies.
The Thni Kong Tnua or Jade Emperor's Pavilion in Air Itam is one of those rare temples dedicated to the worship of this august deity. The temple in its present form dates back to 1905. It was built by the same Cantonese-Hokkien temple trustees as the Kong Hock Keong, better known as Kuan Im Teng. A Taoist shrine is said to have existed on that particular site since 1869, and for that reason, the present Jade Emperor's Pavilion is regarded as being over 140 years old
Before the renovation of 2002, the Jade Emperor's Pavilion received its last major facelift through the efforts of the philanthropist brothers Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, of Haw Par Villa fame. That was back in 1931. Among the structures built at that time was an octagonal pavilion that is still standing.
The Jade Emperor's Pavilion sits on a horse-shoe knoll called Fong San or Phoenix Mountain, a particularly auspicious position, for it represents the four sacred creatures of Taoism - green dragon, white tiger, black turtle and red peacock, each guarding the temple in four cardinal directions
The Thni Kong Tnua is unique in that it is a Taoist temple managed by Buddhist monks. One of the more imminent was Abbot Jing Ming, a Mahayana Buddhist monk who also taught Zen Buddism. He served as abbot of Thni Kong Tnua from 1905 to 1915.
The Thni Kong Tnua underwent extensive renovation and restoration, which began in January 2002. As the craftmanship is not available locally, artisans from China had to be employed. They include 33 craftsmen from Fuzhou. The people involved in the restoration are also the ones."
chris khoo
"My favourite temple in Penang….Jade Emperor"
Kannaft Soon
"A great place to visit, i feel very peaceful environment. Nice scenery view. The blue sky, bright sun and white cloud is moving. Make me feel like i m really at heaven."
Lakia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Ayer Itam, at the foot of Penang Hill. While Google Maps can be a bit tricky, look for signs directing you to Ayer Itam or Penang Hill. Many visitors find it helpful to take a Grab or taxi to the temple's vicinity.
Be prepared for a climb up 110 granite steps to reach the main temple complex.Limited parking may be available near the base of the steps, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. It's often easier to rely on ride-sharing services or public transport if available. :car:
From George Town, you can take a Grab or taxi directly to the temple. Alternatively, you can use local bus services that head towards Ayer Itam. Confirm the route with your driver or at the bus terminal. :bus:
The main temple complex is reached via a flight of 110 granite steps, which may pose a challenge for individuals with significant mobility issues. :wheelchair:
Yes, local buses operate in the area and can take you close to the temple. It's advisable to check the latest bus routes and schedules as they can change. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Jade Emperor Temple is generally free. Donations are welcome and appreciated to help with the temple's upkeep and restoration efforts. :moneybag:
The temple is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and surroundings. :clock:
For a more peaceful experience, aim for weekdays, especially in the morning. Visiting outside of major Chinese festivals and holidays will also help you avoid larger crowds.
No, tickets are not required for entry to the Jade Emperor Temple as it is a place of worship and generally free to enter. :ticket:
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees should ideally be covered. :dress:
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You'll find a beautiful Taoist temple with a blend of Buddhist architectural influences. Admire the century-old stone carvings on the archway, ascend the 110 steps, and experience the serene atmosphere of the main hall dedicated to the Jade Emperor. The temple is situated amidst lush greenery, offering a peaceful environment.
Yes, the temple offers many picturesque spots. The ornate archway, the steps leading up, and the intricate details within the temple provide excellent opportunities for photography. Remember to be respectful of worshippers. :camerawithflash:
In Chinese mythology, the Jade Emperor is the supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth, presiding over deities, humans, and the natural world. He is associated with morality and justice.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. There might be small stalls selling religious items or souvenirs near the temple entrance. :shopping_bags:
Absolutely. The temple is a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to offer prayers and light incense. Observe local customs and be mindful of others. :pray:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the temple is located in the Ayer Itam area, which is known for its vibrant food scene. You'll find numerous local eateries and hawker stalls offering delicious Penang specialties nearby. :noodles:
Don't miss out on Penang's famous Laksa, Char Kway Teow, Hokkien Mee, and Cendol. Ayer Itam itself is a popular spot for local delicacies. :ice_cream:
Many local eateries offer vegetarian options, especially in areas with a strong Chinese Buddhist influence. Look for stalls advertising vegetarian dishes or ask for recommendations. :leafy_green:
Generally, eating is not permitted within the main prayer halls of the temple to maintain its sanctity. There might be designated areas outside the temple where you can consume food. :forkandknife:
Food stalls in Ayer Itam often start operating from late morning and continue into the evening. Some may open earlier for breakfast. :sunrise:
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate archway with its ancient carvings is a must-capture. The 110 steps offer a dramatic perspective, and the main altar inside provides a serene backdrop. The surrounding lush greenery also adds to the photographic appeal. :camerawithflash:
While photography is generally allowed, it's important to be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash photography inside the main prayer halls. Always be mindful of your surroundings. :no_flash:
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, creating a softer glow and fewer harsh shadows. The midday sun can be quite intense. :sunwithface:
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and residential areas due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. :drone:
Look for the intricate details in the stone carvings on the archway, the decorative elements on the temple roof, and the statues within the temple grounds. These often make for compelling close-up photographs. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to observe the intricate carvings on the archway and look for the different animal figures that might be part of the temple's decor. While the main focus is on worship, the visual elements and the sense of history can be engaging. Remember to dress modestly and keep an eye on children, especially on the steps and around the main prayer areas. :family_ww:
🙏 Devout Worshippers
The temple's management by Buddhist monks adds a unique layer to the spiritual experience, often fostering a tranquil environment conducive to meditation and reflection. The historical significance and the auspicious location further enhance the spiritual resonance of the site.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the main altar offers a serene and atmospheric subject. Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions, particularly during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, to capture the temple's beauty. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially with flash. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Jade Emperor
One popular tale explains the origin of the Chinese zodiac. The Jade Emperor organized a race for animals to determine their order in the calendar. The clever rat, riding on the back of the ox, tricked the ox into letting it go first, thus securing its place as the first animal. The cat, unfortunately, missed the race due to the rat's trickery, leading to the eternal animosity between cats and rats. These narratives highlight the Jade Emperor's role not just as a divine ruler but also as a figure in moralistic and explanatory folklore.
Architectural Fusion and History
Its location on Fong San (Phoenix Mountain) is considered highly auspicious in Taoism, symbolizing the four sacred creatures: the green dragon, white tiger, black turtle, and red peacock, which are believed to guard the temple from the four cardinal directions. The archway leading to the temple is particularly noteworthy, adorned with century-old stone carvings that speak to its rich history. The temple's architecture blends elements of both Buddhist and Taoist styles, reflecting the syncretic nature of religious practices in the region.
The Jade Emperor's Birthday Celebration
During this time, the temple grounds are adorned with decorations, and special ceremonies are held to honor the supreme deity. It's a time when the community comes together to express gratitude and seek blessings for the year ahead. While it's a spectacular event to witness, be prepared for substantial crowds and plan your visit accordingly if you choose to attend.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit