Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: A Visitor Guide | Singapore Purple Travel Guide
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Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel GuideThe Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a magnificent four-story religious and cultural complex that dominates the skyline of Chinatown. Built in the Tang Dynasty architectural style, its deep red walls and gold accents house what is believed to be the sacred tooth relic of the historical Buddha. It serves as both a vibrant place of worship and a world-class museum dedicated to Buddhist art and history.
Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.
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paid Viator tours
Why You Should Visit
This temple is an essential stop for travelers who want to experience the grandeur of Buddhist architecture and philosophy in a modern setting. It offers a peaceful, air-conditioned retreat from the tropical heat where you can explore intricate religious artifacts and witness traditional ceremonies. The level of detail in the craftsmanship, from the ceiling mandalas to the thousands of tiny Buddha statues, is truly breathtaking.
What is Special About It?
- The Sacred Light Hall: On the fourth floor, the sacred tooth relic is housed in a massive stupa made from 320kg of solid gold, donated by devotees.
- The Hundred Dragons Hall: The main prayer hall on the ground floor features high ceilings and a stunning display of Buddhist iconography that creates an immediate sense of awe.
- Rooftop Zen Garden: A hidden gem at the very top of the building, featuring a large Vairocana Buddha Prayer Wheel surrounded by a tranquil garden of orchids.
- Eminent Relics Museum: The third floor contains a vast collection of artifacts from various Buddhist traditions across Asia, providing a deep look into the evolution of the faith.
History and Facts
- A Modern Landmark: Despite its ancient appearance, the temple was only completed in 2007, designed to adhere strictly to the aesthetics of the Tang Dynasty.
- The Relic Discovery: The tooth relic was reportedly discovered in 1980 in a collapsed stupa in Myanmar before being brought to Singapore for the creation of this temple.
- Cultural Hub: The basement of the temple often hosts a vegetarian dining hall where devotees and visitors can enjoy simple, traditional meals together.
- Architectural Harmony: The design was carefully chosen to complement the heritage shophouses of Chinatown while introducing a grander scale of religious architecture.
Self-Guided Information
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Opening Hours |
Daily: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Admission Fee |
Free (Donations for temple upkeep are welcome) |
Best Time to Go |
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM to hear the rhythmic chanting of the morning prayers. |
Getting There |
5-minute walk from Chinatown MRT (Exit A) or Maxwell MRT (Exit 1). |
Accessibility |
Fully accessible; multiple lifts serve all floors, including the museum and rooftop. |
Traveler Tip
For a moment of absolute serenity, head all the way to the rooftop garden. Most tourists stay on the lower floors for the main altar, so the rooftop remains one of the quietest spots in Chinatown. It is a perfect place to sit and reflect. Do not forget that strict dress codes apply here—no off-the-shoulder tops or short skirts—but free shawls and wrap-around skirts are available at the entrance if you need them.
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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel
Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.
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