Ching San Yen Temple

Ching San Yen Temple is a Buddhist place of worship situated on elevated ground in Kuching, positioned near the Sarawak River and reaching about 120 feet above sea level. The structure occupies substantial grounds featuring traditional building design and classical Chinese architectural details.

The temple was founded approximately 200 years ago by Chinese immigrants as an offering of thanks to Buddha Bodhisattvas and Mazu for protecting seafarers. It developed into a significant religious center for the Chinese community in the region.

The temple features hand-carved wooden details and decorative elements that reflect traditional Chinese craftsmanship and continue to serve as a gathering place for Buddhist worship today.

The temple is reachable from central Kuching and sits on elevated ground that offers views of the surroundings. Visitors should expect stairs and uneven paths since the site is built on a hillside.

A natural spring well on the temple grounds once provided fresh water to locals before municipal systems arrived in the 1980s. This forgotten feature shows how the temple served practical needs beyond spiritual ones.

Location: Kuching

GPS coordinates: 1.64619,110.48501

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:23