The architectural masterpiece that is the Buddha Tooth Relic and Museum in Singapore is designed on the Tang Dynasty style of China. Buddhism had a major influence on the Tang Dynasty and most of their innovations were based on it. Art and Culture flourished during this dynasty and it was an era of progress and stability. These factors have contributed to the making of the Temple and the Museum which resemble a bygone period of Chinese history and its accomplishments. A great deal of effort had gone into making the temple and museum in Singapore. The idea was to combine Chinese and Buddhist history into the architecture to represent the culture of China and the core philosophies of Buddhism.
The Buddha’s relic is venerated by Buddhists across the globe and the belief is that the tooth relic must be kept in a sacred place that highlights the Buddhist principles. Keeping this in mind Venerable Shi Fa Zhao a Buddhist priest set out to secure a place in Singapore. It was not an easy task because Singapore is a small country and limitations on space and land affected the building project. Ultimately Ven. Zhao got in touch with the Chinese and with their help built a structure that would suit the sacred relic and the people of Singapore. The design is a lot like the Golden Mandala Temple with a few architectural features from the Tang Dynasty.
The Buddha Tooth Relic and Museum is open to the public and it is an interesting place to explore. There are several courtyards in the premises and each of them includes a special feature. On the first floor you will find the temple bell which is an important musical instrument in Buddhist culture. The temple bell signifies a clear mind, wisdom, blessings and it is rung each year to welcome the Chinese New Year.
There are several other locations within the temple which you should have a look at, but if you are short on time then head over to the museum. The museum has a remarkable collection of Buddhist relics with the descriptions and history of the artefacts on display. If you love to learn something new each day you’re bound to learn a lot reading about the ancient artefacts at this museum. Visitors who want to take a look at this complex should plan their stay at serviced apartments Singapore. Since the complex is located in Chinatown, Singapore apartment hotels are the best option for accommodation. Citadines Mount Sophia Singapore is one place that can be suggested since it is close to the city’s attractions and offers all the services tourists will require during their vacation.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
