Singapore in 1 Day for Couples - Thian Hock Keng (Hokkien Temple)
In Collaboration with MyProGuide Singapore. Updated on February 24, 2026.
A peaceful escape in the heart of the city to discover the rich heritage of Singapore’s temples. English / Chinese speaking local guide leads a compact walking route through Chinatown and nearby districts, visiting Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Muslim and Sikh places of worship and explaining architecture, ritual and community life.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with MyProGuide Singapore, inspired by the tour (Free eSIM) 3 Hour Singaporean Spiritual Temple Walking Tour Experience . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Thian Hock Keng (Hokkien Temple)
- Amoy Street Taoist shrine
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
- Sri Mariamman Temple (oldest Hindu temple in Singapore)
- Masjid Jamae Chulia (historic mosque in Chinatown neighborhood )
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning walking tour. Meet at Telok Ayer MRT and proceed on a paced walk through Chinatown and adjacent districts visiting multiple places of worship. Total scheduled window: 09:00–12:30. Not wheelchair or stroller accessible; modest dress requested at religious sites.
Meet: Telok Ayer MRT (Telok Ayer St)
Group meet-up and short introduction to the route, safety briefing and guide introductions. Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to ensure on-time departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet at street level near the main Telok Ayer St exit of Telok Ayer MRT station; look for the guide holding identifiable tour signage.
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early so the group can start promptly at 09:00 — the itinerary is tightly timed.
- Bring a small bottle of water and comfortable walking shoes; there are limited seating areas on the route.
Thian Hock Keng Temple (Hokkien Temple)
Historic Hokkien temple where worshippers pray to Mazu with incense and fruit offerings; guide explains the temple's architecture, clan history and ritual etiquette.
Tips from local experts:
- Remove shoes before entering main prayer halls and follow the guide’s directions about where photography is allowed.
- Keep voices low and avoid pointing cameras at worshippers engaged in prayer; ask the guide before photographing rituals.
- The temple has limited seating; if you need to sit, ask the guide for recommended quieter spots nearby.
Amoy Street Taoist shrine
Local Taoist shrine on Amoy Street where devotees honour Xuan Tian Shang Di (the Dark Heavenly Emperor); short visit to observe incense offerings and shrine architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly and avoid loud conversations inside small shrine spaces where worshippers gather.
- Keep personal belongings close — narrow streets and small crowds mean less space to set items down.
- If uncertain about photography, follow the guide's cue; some shrines restrict flash or close-up images of offerings.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Visit the landmark Buddhist temple and museum in Chinatown; guide will highlight the architecture, relic displays and devotional practice areas.
Tips from local experts:
- Observe posted museum rules: some exhibition areas require quiet and no-flash photography — follow the guide’s instructions.
- Leave large bags with the guide or carry them on your front when inside busy prayer halls to avoid blocking walkways.
- Allow a few minutes to step back and enjoy exterior details — the temple façade and rooftop have distinct architectural motifs.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple in Chinatown; the guide will explain Dravidian architecture, iconography, and annual festival practices associated with the temple.
Tips from local experts:
- Remove shoes before entering and be mindful of areas designated for active worship and puja rituals.
- If visiting during festivals, expect more crowds and temporary cordons; follow the guide’s instructions for safe viewing.
- Observe respectfully around devotees and do not step over thresholds where priests or worshippers are performing rituals.
Masjid Jamae Chulia (Jamae Mosque)
One of the oldest mosques in Singapore, built by South Indian Muslims in the 1800s; guide will outline mosque architecture, community role and visiting etiquette.
Tips from local experts:
- Women may be asked to cover their heads and both men and women should dress modestly; carry a scarf to use if needed.
- Avoid visiting during prayer times (especially Friday midday) unless joining on the guide’s instruction; the guide will advise suitable timing.
- Remove shoes at mosque entrances and place them in the designated area; follow signage and the guide’s guidance for where to stand.
Transfer: short road transfer to Silat Road (by taxi/public transport)
Short transfer from Chinatown area to Silat Road Sikh Temple. The guide will advise the simplest public transport or short taxi route; participants should be prepared for a 15–25 minute move.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 15–25 minutes for the transfer depending on traffic; the guide will confirm the recommended public transport route or a short taxi.
- If taking a taxi or ride-hail, keep luggage to a minimum; have the driver set to Silat Road Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) to avoid confusion.
- Use the vehicle’s air-conditioning and sit toward the center on busy days; keep valuables secure during transfers.
Silat Road Sikh Temple (Gurdwara)
Historic Sikh temple noted for its golden dome; the guide will explain Sikh practices and the tradition of langar (community vegetarian kitchen). Visitors may observe the kitchen and communal dining ethos.
Tips from local experts:
- Head coverings are required inside the gurdwara; bring a scarf or you can be provided one at the entrance.
- The gurdwara traditionally offers free vegetarian langar; if you plan to observe the kitchen or share a meal, follow the guide’s directions and note there can be queues during peak times.
- Remove shoes before entering and keep a respectful, quiet demeanor inside prayer and dining areas.
Tour wrap-up & Q&A
Concluding remarks, time for questions and practical advice for continuing to explore the area independently.
Tips from local experts:
- The guide can point out nearby cafes or quieter streets for a relaxed post-tour stroll; ask for a simple walking suggestion if you want to continue exploring.
- If you need onward transport, the guide will advise nearby bus stops or MRT connections from the Silat Road area.
- Keep any personal items collected from temple entrances in an easy-to-reach place for a swift departure.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Culture, Attraction, Transfer, Break |
