Singapore's Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Right in the heart of Chinatown lies a relatively new Buddhist Temple that houses a Buddha Tooth Relic. Officially opened on May, 2007, the temple-museum has since became the symbol of faith for the Chinese-dominated Singapore.

This temple has got to be one of the best temples I have seen. The walls of the temple on the first floor is covered by miniature statues of Buddhas in different forms. And since red is considered by Chinese as their lucky color, almost everything in the temple is red, from the walls to the floors and the ceilings as well. Even the chairs, tables and stand are red... perfectly complimenting the three Golden Buddhas glowing in the altar.

The temple has four floors. The first floor is the prayer and worship floor where an altar and hundreds of Buddhas are located. The second floor is where commercial activities are happening like mini tea house and souvenir shops. The third floor serves as the museum where several Buddha collection from all over the world are located. The fourth floor is where the actual Buddha Tooth Relic is located. Here are some shots I have taken at the temple:

Temple Gate

Temple Facade from the Courtyard

Maitreya Hall

Praying at the Universal Wisdom Hall

Lots of Small Buddha Walls

Warrior Guarding the Temple I

Warrior Guarding the Temple II

Located at 288 South Bridge Road, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is open everyday including holidays from 7 am to 7 pm. Just a word of caution, please abide by their rules specifically the wearing of appropriate attire to show respect. No bare backs, off-shoulders, shorts, mini-skirts, etc should be worn. Further, no non-vegetarian food and pets are allowed inside the temple. For further inquiries, please visit their website here.