Hong San Si Temple
A 176-year-old Hokkien temple on Kuching's heritage trail, famed for its intricate Fujian architecture and cultural significance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Serene atmosphere, great light
Hong San Si Temple
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 176-year-old Hokkien temple on Kuching's heritage trail, famed for its intricate Fujian architecture and cultural significance.
"One of the most beautiful temples in Kuching and it's hard to miss if you explore the old city area. "
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning shots of intricate carvings and vibrant colors, especially in the morning or late afternoon light.
🚶♀️ Heritage Trail Essential
Easily accessible on foot as part of Kuching's historic Carpenter Street and heritage trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Fujian-Style Architecture
Carpenter Street, Kuching
Marvel at vibrant Fujian-style roof ornaments, detailed carvings, and colorful walls that tell stories of history and devotion.
Child Deity Kong Teck Choon Ong
Main Altar
Discover the temple's dedication to the child deity believed to bless and protect worshippers, a central figure in Hokkien beliefs.
UNESCO-Recognized Heritage Gem
Throughout the Temple
Appreciate the temple's historical significance, recognized by UNESCO for its conservation efforts and role in community life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Kuching's Heritage Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning shots of intricate carvings and vibrant colors, especially in the morning or late afternoon light.
🚶♀️ Heritage Trail Essential
Easily accessible on foot as part of Kuching's historic Carpenter Street and heritage trail.
🎉 Festival Vibrancy
Visit during festivals for lively offerings, lion dances, and traditional performances.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Dress modestly and be mindful of worshippers when exploring this active place of prayer.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning shots of intricate carvings and vibrant colors, especially in the morning or late afternoon light.
🚶♀️ Heritage Trail Essential
Easily accessible on foot as part of Kuching's historic Carpenter Street and heritage trail.
🎉 Festival Vibrancy
Visit during festivals for lively offerings, lion dances, and traditional performances.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Dress modestly and be mindful of worshippers when exploring this active place of prayer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hong San Si Temple is lauded as a beautiful and historically significant heritage gem in Kuching, praised for its intricate Fujian-style architecture and vibrant carvings. Visitors appreciate its role in local culture and its UNESCO-recognized conservation efforts. While it's a busy intersection, its accessibility on the heritage trail and its serene atmosphere during off-peak hours make it a highly recommended stop.
"Tucked along Carpenter Street in Kuching’s old Chinatown, Hong San Si is one of the city’s oldest Chinese temples, dating back to 1848. Built by Hokkien settlers, it is dedicated to the child deity Kong Teck Choon Ong, who is believed to bless and protect worshippers.
Despite its modest size, the temple is rich in heritage, from its colourful Fujian-style roof ornaments and carvings to the centuries of community life it has witnessed. It once served as a gathering place for Kuching’s Chinese settlers and still plays a role in local cultural celebrations today.
A fun fact: the temple was restored in the 2000s with support from UNESCO, earning recognition for its conservation efforts. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the deity’s birthday festival, you’ll find the temple bustling with offerings, lion dances, and traditional performances.
Whether you stop by to admire its architecture, take in the history, or soak up the lively atmosphere during festivities, Hong San Si is a must-see heritage gem in Kuching."
Melvin J.
"One of the most beautiful temples in Kuching and it's hard to miss if you explore the old city area. If you exit Carpenter Street, this will be the last building on your right.
The carvings are really intricate and really nice especially when matched with the correct colours. Hong San Si Temple is also a beautiful place to take photographs, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, on a clear day.
Highly recommended is you love to take photos as this is one of the must-visit temples in all of Kuching."
David “The Explorer” Hogan Jr
"This Hokkien Temple is dated back to 1840. It may be small and less attractive compared to the Tua Pek Kong Temple, which is just less than 200 meters away. Even if you are not a believer, it's great exhibits of intricate dragon cravings around the pillars, on the walls and on its roofs already worth the visit. These cravings are the best showcase of the local Chinese culture and workmanship. Definitely insta worthy!!"
Jo Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hong San Si Temple is conveniently located on Carpenter Street in Kuching's old Chinatown. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the Kuching Heritage Trail. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in the city.
Yes, it's hard to miss if you're exploring the old city area. If you exit Carpenter Street, it will be the last building on your right.
Walking is highly recommended to soak in the atmosphere of Carpenter Street and the surrounding heritage sites.
Parking can be challenging in this busy intersection area, so it's best to rely on walking or public transport if possible.
While specific bus routes can vary, the temple is in a central area, and local buses often serve the main streets of Kuching. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is typically no entrance fee to visit Hong San Si Temple. It's a place of worship and cultural heritage open to the public.
The temple is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate its architecture and atmosphere.
Absolutely! Visiting during festivals, like the Nine Emperor Gods Festival or deity birthday celebrations, offers a unique and vibrant experience with special events.
No advance booking is required for general visits. However, if you're interested in attending specific festival events, it's wise to check local listings for any special arrangements.
While the temple is a heritage site, efforts are often made to improve accessibility. However, due to its historic nature, some areas might present challenges. It's advisable to inquire locally if specific accessibility needs are a concern.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are early mornings or late afternoons when the light is softer and the crowds are thinner, highlighting the intricate carvings and vibrant colors.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive flash photography, especially during prayer times.
Focus on the detailed roof ornaments, the intricate dragon carvings on pillars and walls, and the vibrant red and gold color schemes.
Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or special events to ensure smooth visitor flow. It's best to be discreet or inquire with temple staff if you plan to use one.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the temple's architectural details, cultural elements, and the lively atmosphere during festivals. Tilt-shift and miniature effects have also been used to showcase the temple's grandeur.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Hong San Si Temple is one of Kuching's oldest Chinese temples, dating back to 1848, making it over 170 years old.
The temple was built by Hokkien settlers in Kuching, reflecting the early Chinese community's presence and influence in the city.
It's a significant heritage site dedicated to the child deity Kong Teck Choon Ong, and it historically served as a community gathering place. It was also recognized by UNESCO for its conservation.
The temple is primarily dedicated to the child deity Kong Teck Choon Ong. It also hosts revered deities like Guang Zhe Zhun Wang and Miao Ying Xian Fei during special ceremonies.
The temple is a hub for cultural celebrations, including the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, deity birthday festivals, and community gatherings like Mid-Autumn celebrations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a festival if possible, but even a regular visit offers a chance to discuss cultural traditions and history in an accessible way. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of respectful photography practices, especially during prayer times. 🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Heritage
Beyond its visual appeal, the temple holds deep cultural significance. It was historically a vital gathering place for Kuching's Chinese settlers and remains an active place of worship.
Experiencing Festivals and Community Spirit
The temple actively participates in and hosts significant events, such as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival and the birthdays of various deities. These occasions transform the temple into a lively spectacle, filled with offerings, traditional performances, and the energetic beat of lion dances. During these festivals, the temple becomes a focal point for unity and cultural expression. For instance, the Mid-Autumn celebration at Hong San Si has been noted as a free event featuring festive food and a lantern walk, fostering a strong sense of local community spirit.
The temple also plays a role in inter-community events, with groups representing different temples participating in processions, showcasing the unity among diverse religious associations in Sarawak. +1 Experiencing these festivals offers a unique glimpse into the living traditions and the strong social fabric of Kuching. 
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