Xian Ma Temple - Image 1
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Xian Ma Temple

4.7
·133 reviews·, Indonesia

A vibrant Tridharma temple in Makassar, blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian beliefs with stunning modern architecture and rich cultural narrative...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Xian Ma Temple - Image 1

Xian Ma Temple

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant Tridharma temple in Makassar, blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian beliefs with stunning modern architecture and rich cultural narratives.

4.7
(133 reviews)

"A unique and old Chinese temple in Chinatown Makassar, blending faiths beautifully."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:

📸 Ask Before Photographing

Be mindful of worshippers and sacred areas. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Five-Story Pagoda

The Five-Story Pagoda

Main Temple Building

A modern marvel with intricate carvings depicting the Romance of Three Kingdoms and Buddha's life.

Lion Dance Troupe

Lion Dance Troupe

Temple Grounds

Witness the vibrant energy of their award-winning lion dance troupe, a symbol of Chinese culture.

Statues of Deities

Statues of Deities

Various Altars

Explore a vast collection of statues representing Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian figures.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visits

Xian Ma Temple is a place of worship for Tridharma followers. While visitors are welcome, remember to dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing prayers. Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and sacred areas.

Understanding the Deities

This Mahayana Buddhist temple incorporates elements of Taoism and Confucianism. If you're unfamiliar with the deities, don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for guidance on customs and beliefs.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Experience lively events
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

menuju istana ular Desa Galang kecamatan welak kabupaten Manggarai Barat. silakan salin link berikut untuk full vidionya: https://youtu.be/CMBLAcfCISs
@masternjok
20.9K likes • 298.4K views

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:

📸 Ask Before Photographing

Be mindful of worshippers and sacred areas. :camerawithflash:

❓ Seek Staff Guidance

Friendly staff can explain customs and deities. :informationdeskperson:

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs

Admire the detailed carvings on the way up. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:

📸 Ask Before Photographing

Be mindful of worshippers and sacred areas. :camerawithflash:

❓ Seek Staff Guidance

Friendly staff can explain customs and deities. :informationdeskperson:

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs

Admire the detailed carvings on the way up. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(133 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Xian Ma Temple as a significant Tridharma worship site with a welcoming atmosphere. Many appreciate the intricate carvings depicting Chinese legends and the life of Buddha, as well as the friendly staff. While it's a place of prayer, non-followers are encouraged to visit and learn.

"The temple for Tridharma people (Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucianist) to pray. The legend temple in the city. Located at Sulawesi road, the temple is at the left side of the road. It is easy to find. There are many statues of god here. Although you are not Tridharma people, you are still allowed to enter, to take photos, look around or do the divination (if you believe and have faith in this), led by experienced staff. The staffs are very nice and friendly."

Silvia Angelina

"Huge modern building for workship Chinese Buddha. Interesting to see."

yen nguyen

"A very unique and old chinese temple in Chinatown Makassar."

KF Yap

What People Like

Intricate carvings
Friendly staff
Tridharma blend

What People Dislike

Can be confusing for non-believers

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Xian Ma Temple is located on Sulawesi Road, making it easy to find. It's a prominent landmark, often mentioned as being on the left side of the road when approaching from certain directions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Makassar to take you directly to the temple. Reddit

Yes, Xian Ma Temple is described as a unique and old Chinese temple located in Chinatown, Makassar. Reddit

From the city center, a short taxi or ride-sharing trip will get you to Xian Ma Temple efficiently. The temple's location on Sulawesi Road is quite accessible. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of an entrance fee for Xian Ma Temple. Visitors are generally allowed to enter freely to pray, take photos, or look around. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not widely published, but temples of this nature are typically open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the morning or afternoon. Reddit

Absolutely! The temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. You can enter to take photos, look around, or even try divination if you wish, with guidance from experienced staff. Reddit

While not strictly enforced, it's highly recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Covering your shoulders and knees is a good practice. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the statues of various deities, explore the five-story building with its intricate carvings, and learn about Tridharma beliefs. The temple also has an active lion dance troupe. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted, but it's crucial to be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking pictures during prayer ceremonies or in restricted areas. Reddit

Yes, if you are interested and have faith, you can do the divination. Experienced staff are available to guide you through the process. Reddit

The carvings on the stairs tell stories from the 'Romance of Three Kingdoms' and the life of Buddha Gautama, offering a visual narrative for visitors. Reddit

Yes, a lift has been installed to cater to the elderly, making the upper floors accessible for everyone. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no specific mentions of food stalls or restaurants within Xian Ma Temple itself. However, being located in Chinatown, Makassar, you'll find numerous local eateries and street food vendors nearby offering a variety of Indonesian and Chinese dishes. Reddit

The surrounding Chinatown area is known for its diverse culinary scene. You can find anything from traditional Indonesian fare like soto and nasi goreng to Chinese specialties and seafood. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The intricate carvings on the stairs depicting the Romance of Three Kingdoms and Buddha's life are excellent photo opportunities. The main altar areas with their statues also offer visually rich scenes. Reddit

While photography is generally allowed, always be respectful. Avoid photographing worshippers during prayer and refrain from using flash in sensitive areas. Reddit

Morning light can be softer and less harsh, making it ideal for capturing details. However, the temple's interior lighting can also create dramatic effects in the late afternoon or evening. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Xian Ma Temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese culture and religion that can be engaging for families. The five-story building with its accessible lift means everyone can explore. The carvings on the stairs depicting stories like the Romance of Three Kingdoms can be a fun way to introduce children to historical narratives. Reddit

While the temple is a place of worship, the vibrant lion dance troupe (if performances are scheduled) can be particularly exciting for younger visitors. Encourage children to observe respectfully and perhaps ask the friendly staff simple questions about the deities they see. It's a great opportunity for a cultural learning experience in a welcoming environment. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Xian Ma Temple presents a rich tapestry of visual opportunities. The intricate carvings on the staircases are a must-capture, offering detailed storytelling through art. The statues of various deities provide striking subjects, especially when illuminated by natural light filtering through the temple. Reddit

Consider visiting in the morning for softer light that highlights textures and details. The modern architecture of the five-story building also offers interesting angles. Remember to be discreet and respectful when photographing worshippers or during ceremonies. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Tridharma Faith at Xian Ma Temple

Xian Ma Temple is a significant center for the Tridharma faith, which harmoniously blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. This syncretic approach is evident in the temple's architecture, iconography, and the deities honored. Visitors will find statues representing figures from all three traditions, reflecting a unique cultural and spiritual landscape. It's important to note that while it's a Mahayana Buddhist temple, it embraces a broader spectrum of Chinese traditional beliefs, making it particularly appealing to followers of Confucianism and Taoism. Reddit

For those unfamiliar with Tridharma, the temple's friendly and experienced staff are a valuable resource. They can provide insights into the customs, rituals, and the significance of the various deities. This welcoming attitude ensures that visitors, regardless of their religious background, can appreciate the spiritual depth and cultural richness of Xian Ma Temple. Reddit

This blend of faiths creates a unique atmosphere, distinct from purely Theravada Buddhist temples. Visitors who are prepared to observe and respect these combined traditions will find the experience deeply rewarding. The temple's organization is also noted for its strength, including its own award-winning lion dance troupe, which adds another layer of cultural vibrancy. TikTok

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details

The modern renovation of Xian Ma Temple has transformed it into an impressive five-story structure, a far cry from its humble beginnings. This architectural upgrade not only accommodates more worshippers but also serves as a canvas for intricate artistic expression. A key feature is the lift installed for accessibility, ensuring that all visitors, especially the elderly, can reach the upper levels. However, the true artistic gems are often found by those who choose to take the stairs. Reddit

As you ascend, the staircases are adorned with detailed carvings that narrate compelling stories. These include epic scenes from the Romance of Three Kingdoms, a classic Chinese historical novel, and the life story of Buddha Gautama. These visual narratives offer a unique educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with Chinese history and Buddhist teachings through art. Reddit

The temple's design is a testament to the fusion of tradition and modernity, creating a space that is both spiritually significant and aesthetically captivating. The attention to detail in the carvings and the overall grandeur of the building make it a noteworthy landmark in Makassar.

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