A visit to Chinatown or the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple will give you an unforgettable vacation experience in Singapore. More than just an ordinary place of worship, this five-story temple and museum complex is one of the most aesthetically pleasing spots in Singapore. 

Located on South Bridge Road, this red temple with gold accents isn’t just a place of worship for Buddhists, it’s also a cultural tourist destination. Let’s find out more about this place so you won’t be confused when you visit later!

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Although it resembles an ancient structure, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was actually inaugurated in 2007. The temple was built on the initiative of Venerable Shi Fa Zhao and designed in the architectural style of China’s Tang Dynasty.

The temple’s name comes from the relic believed to be a tooth of Gautama Buddha, which is enshrined within the building. As this relic is considered one of the most sacred objects, the temple serves as both a center of worship and a place for the preservation of Buddhist history and culture.

With its grand design, red and gold ornamentation, and intricate carvings, this building has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore’s Chinatown.

Good news for budget travelers: Admission to this magnificent Chinatown Temple is 100% free, both for the temple grounds and the museum!

Getting here is super easy since it’s conveniently located in the heart of the city.  Just take the MRT. There are two nearby station options:

Check out the various activities travelers can enjoy when visiting this temple in Singapore’s Chinatown.

The first thing that will immediately catch your eye is the grandeur of the building. The combination of red and gold, the tiered roofs typical of Chinese temples, and the dragon carvings adorning various corners make this place incredibly photogenic.

In addition to being a place of worship, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple also features a museum showcasing a variety of Buddhist artifacts from various Asian countries. Visitors can view Buddha statues, ancient manuscripts, religious artworks, and ritual objects, all accompanied by English explanations for easy understanding.

Although located in the heart of bustling Chinatown, the atmosphere inside the temple feels incredibly peaceful. Many visitors come to sit for a while, enjoy the tranquility, or meditate. 

Don’t miss the garden area on the top floor. This rooftop garden is filled with greenery, orchids, and a small pagoda.

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the best photography spots in Chinatown. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon usually offers the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Here are a variety of hotels, from luxury to budget, to choose from:

If you want to experience the most iconic stay in Singapore, Marina Bay Sands is the obvious choice. Although located in the Marina Bay area, this hotel is only about 2.7 km, or about a 10-minute drive, from the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown. This luxurious 5-star hotel is famous for its rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Singapore skyline. 

Of course, it also features elegant rooms, world-class restaurants, a premium shopping center, and direct access to various famous attractions. Room rates generally start at around SGD 700 to 1,000 per night, depending on the room type.

For those looking for a more affordable hotel without sacrificing comfort, Hotel Mi Bencoolen is a great choice. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with complete amenities. Its location is very close to Bencoolen MRT Station, making it convenient for exploring Singapore.

From this hotel, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is about 2 km away or about a 10 minute ride by MRT or taxi.

YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road is perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of the Orchard shopping district. This 4-star hotel features a modern design with compact yet comfortable smart rooms. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a 24-hour gym, a restaurant, and a lounge. Access to Chinatown is also easy, as the Orchard MRT Station is just a few steps from the hotel, making travel by public transportation very convenient.

Dorsett Singapore is a favorite among travelers looking to stay near Chinatown. It’s just 500 meters from the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple!  This 4-star hotel offers a full range of amenities. It also features direct access to Outram Park MRT Station. Room rates typically start around SGD 220–300 per night, making it a good value given its strategic location and the amenities provided.

This hotel is only about 450 meters, or a 5 minute walk, from the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. In addition to being within easy reach of the Chinatown Heritage Center and Maxwell Food Center, guests can also walk to Telok Ayer and Marina Bay in no time. So if you’re looking for a hotel in a central location with easy access to everything, the Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre is the answer.

When planning a vacation to Singapore, don’t miss the chance to visit one of Chinatown’s most iconic landmarks. Plan your vacation with Traveloka. Traveloka makes planning your holiday easier. You can choose your flights, hotels and a range of activities all from a single app. Get the best deals and the best experience with Traveloka!