Each one of us is unique in our styles, likes, dislikes, hobbies, appearances and interests. For some, they enjoy taking a plunge into a pool, taking photographs of things, or travelling around the globe. Other people, meanwhile, want to learn more about the culture of a place. Whatever type of person you are, I encourage you to visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore.
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was erected in 2007. It is one of the latest additions to the Chinatown district of Singapore. The temple is bursting with beautiful exhibits of Buddhist culture and art. So, why the name? According to the Buddhists, it is called the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum because it is the home to the actual tooth relic of Buddha.
You can hire a tour guide to accompany you and explain the information about the place. You can send your prayers of petition and thanksgiving in the temple too. The temple operates from 7am until 7pm.
photo by Mark Chan
Visiting the temple while you are in Singapore must be in your itinerary. Why? Simply because it is truly worthy of your time. It is ranked top 13 out of 331 attractions in Singapore. Some highlights may also include:
1. Careful Design
The Tang-style structure of this grand temple was created and inspired by Shi Fa Zhao with the assistance of the overseas consultants and the locals. The temple costs a filthy $75 million and was based on the various elements of the Tang Dynasty and the Buddhist Mandala, which is a symbol of the Buddhist universe. It is really awesome!
2. Sacred relics
In the temple, you’ll surely find a ton of sacred artifacts of the great Buddha, significant documents of early times, as well as tongue and bone relics, which are located at the 3rd floor on Buddhist Culture Museum. Meanwhile, the Sacred Light Hall located on the 4th floor of the building is where the temple’s centerpiece is situated.
3. Giant Stupa
The Buddha Tooth Relic is wonderfully stored inside a giant stupa that weighs over three tons and is made from 320 kilograms of gold. Although you can see it in the designated public viewing area, only the monks are allowed to get inside the sacred relic chamber. This is one way of preserving the masterpiece.
4. Entertainment
You can also view the different performances about the culture, talks or programs and film screenings that are usually held in the theatre called Eminent Sangha Museum. Make sure to check out the schedules.
5. Peaceful roof garden
Want to unwind, self-meditate or escape the hustle bustle of the city? Then, make sure to spend a couple of hours of relaxation at the temple’s roof garden. The roof garden, with its Buddha prayer wheel and pagoda, is truly a good spot to chill out.
You can easily spot the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum since it is just along the road with its colorful design of flags and the ambiance of serenity and peace. The unique structure of the temple will leave you in awe.
Come and visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Not only it is calm and peaceful, but it is also a special place of worship. You can visit even if you are not a devotee because everyone is welcome here.