Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Melaka - Oldest Chinese Temple

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Melaka Overview

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin. Also known as the ‘Merciful Cloud Temple’ or ‘The Temple of Green Cloud’, it is located at the famous Harmony Street in Malacca. It is a multi-faith temple that practices the doctrine of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

The temple has been awarded by UNESCO for the excellent architecture preservation. The temple complex houses several prayer halls with a grand central prayer hall housing the black, gold and red-robed statue of Goddess Kuan Yin. A highlighting feature of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the seven-metre red flag-pole which houses the mortal remains of two of the three captains who contributed majorly in the construction of this temple. A traditional opera houses across the road forms part of the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple complex.

How to Reach Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

In Melaka City, cross the Tan Kim Seng Bridge from Dutch Square, then turn right into Lorong Hang Jebat and from there take a left turn to Jalan Tukan Besi. This will lead to Jalan Tokong, on the left of which one can locate Cheng Hoon Teng in its full glory. One can also take bus no. 25 to reach the temple.

Architecture of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

The temple was built by material brought from Southern China and is a great example of exquisite Chinese architecture and craftsmanship.
The main prayer hall has a high saddles roof with stunning architecture.
To the left of the main hall is the altar dedicated to the Confucius, and in the back, there are ancestral local Chinese tablets.
The temple has many photographers of its founder and the people who subsequently renovated and rebuilt it, as a result of which, it also serves as a great historical spot as well.
There is also a very tall statue of Goddess KUan Yin at the entrance of the temple.
The main gate of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is dazzling.
The architecture of the temple is in accordance to feng shui and the whole complex is designed accordingly.
There are rooms which are dedicated to the deceased and have decorations like wads of fake money in order to create an atmosphere of comfort.
The area around the temple is covered with small trees and is also perfect for serene walks.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Melaka — The main shrine (Source)

Best Time to Visit

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple can be visited at any time of the year. However, during the Chinese New Year, which falls during January or February, one can witness the true beauty of the temple.