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Built in 2007, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Singapore, located in Chinatown, boasts an exquisite interior design showcasing a rich tapestry of Buddhist history and art. The temple's name derives from the canine tooth believed by Buddhists to have been left behind by the Buddha. This tooth was discovered and venerated in Kushinagar, India, where the Buddha was cremated. The Buddhist Cultural Museum on the third floor houses a collection of precious Buddhist artifacts, including bones and tongues. The Hall of Holy Light on the fourth floor showcases the temple's most precious treasure: a massive stupa made of 320 kilograms of gold and weighing 3,500 kilograms. The tooth relic is housed within the stupa. Visitors can view the relic from the public viewing area, but non-monks are prohibited from entering the relic chamber.
All seasons
1-3 hours;
Buddhist Culture Museum
free
09:00-18:00 (Viewing the Tooth Relic) (Monday-Sunday)
08:00-18:00 (Buddhist Cultural Museum and Cultural Relics Museum) (Monday-Sunday)
07:00-19:00 (Famous Sangha Memorial Hall) (Monday-Sunday)
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was completed in 2007 to house a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. It is a significant symbol of Singapore's Buddhist community and cultural heritage. The temple's Longhuayuan Museum showcases Buddhist art and artifacts, making it a key destination for those interested in Buddhist history and culture.
The temple is located in Chinatown, Singapore. It is easily accessible via the Chinatown MRT Station (Exit A) or by bus. Walking from Chinatown's vibrant streets is also an enjoyable way to get there.
The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM. It is recommended to visit in the morning for a quieter experience, though it can also be a peaceful place in the early evening. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
Entry to the temple and museum is free. Donations are welcome but not mandatory. There are no tickets required to visit, but some special exhibitions may require a fee.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, it is advisable to check if any special events or exhibitions require prior registration.
It typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore the temple and museum thoroughly, depending on your interest in the exhibits.
Guided tours are available upon request, and the temple also offers audio guides in multiple languages, including English, Mandarin, and others.
Start by visiting the first floor to see the offerings and artifacts, then proceed to the upper floors where the Buddha Tooth Relic is housed. Don’t miss the museum on the third floor for a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture.
Night visits are available as the temple remains open till 7 PM. Special tours or light shows are not available, but visitors can often witness evening prayers or ceremonies.
The temple can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. It is less crowded in the early mornings or on weekdays.
The temple has basic restroom facilities. There are no food or drink services inside, but there are many restaurants and cafes in the surrounding Chinatown area. There are also shops selling religious artifacts nearby.
The temple is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, although some areas may require navigating stairs. The museum is accessible, and ramps are available for easier access to key areas.
While donations are mostly in cash, there are also mobile payment options available. Cards are generally not accepted for donations at the temple.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at nearby eateries, including in Chinatown Complex and Maxwell Food Centre.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the vicinity offering religious items such as Buddhist figurines, prayer beads, incense, and traditional crafts.
