Siong Lim Temple, Buddhist temple in Toa Payoh, Singapore.
Siong Lim Temple is a Buddhist worship space in Toa Payoh with three main halls arranged along a central north-south axis, separated by two open courtyards. The structure follows classical Chinese architectural design, with a seven-story pagoda topped in gold serving as a focal point of the complex.
A Chinese merchant named Low Kim Pong founded the temple in 1898 following a vision of golden light, with completion in 1907. The pagoda design draws from an 800-year-old temple in Fujian, China, reflecting the architectural connections between distant Buddhist regions.
The name references the twin sala tree groves in Bodh Gaya, India, where Buddha attained enlightenment, connecting this place to one of Buddhism's holiest sites. Visitors can sense how the layout and architecture reflect these sacred connections to Buddhist tradition.
Visitors should expect regular Buddhist ceremonies and prayer sessions happening throughout the day, which shape the rhythm of the place. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be quieter and better for unhurried exploration of the halls and courtyards.
The pagoda design replicates an 800-year-old Shanfeng temple from Fujian, China, creating an architectural link spanning two continents. This choice shows how Chinese merchants preserved their spiritual roots when building in their new home across the sea.
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