Located in Chinatown, Singapore’s Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a one-of-a-kind monastic institution and place of worship. Here’s what travellers need to know about this spiritual highlight.
At a Glance
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is one of Chinatown’s lesser-known tourist hubs although Buddhist devotees have been flocking to the venue for decades. Housed within a structure that combines Tibetan and Tang Dynasty architectural styles, the main attraction at the venue is, of course, the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Believed to have been found inside a now-defunct stupa, the tooth is said to be about 7.5cm long. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the holy relic on the 4th floor of the temple.
Hundred Dragon Hall
One of the main points of interest inside the temple is the Hundred Dragon Hall where tourists will find a 15-foot-high sculpture of Buddha Maitreya with two bodhisattvas on either side. The hall with its 27-foot high ceiling is one of the only venues that can accommodate such a large statue in which each of the statue’s feet are placed atop a lotus flower.
Universal Wisdom Hall
Housing the Cintamanicakra incarnation of Bodhisattva Guanyin, the Universal Wisdom Hall is another not-to-miss attraction in the temple complex. The Heart Sutra, which has been etched in Siddham script, is also visible on the hall’s rearmost wall.
Eminent Sangha Museum
Tourists based at Citadines Rochor Singapore or any other short term apartment rental in Singapore that’s near the temple should also make it a point to tour this museum. Documenting the lives of celebrated monks, the venue stands as a tribute to their contribution to Buddhist thought.
