Chan See Shu Yuen Temple Kuala Lumpur
A vibrant Cantonese heritage temple in KL, famed for its intricate gilded carvings and colorful rooftop figurines.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chan See Shu Yuen Temple Kuala Lumpur
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Cantonese heritage temple in KL, famed for its intricate gilded carvings and colorful rooftop figurines.
"A stunning architectural gem showcasing rich Cantonese heritage and artistry."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful entry. :pray:
Go Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds for a more serene visit. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Roof Sculptures
Rooftops
Marvel at the vibrant, detailed figurines and mythical creatures adorning the temple's rooflines.

Gilded Carvings & Murals
Exterior Walls & Interior
Admire the stunning gold-leaf carvings and colorful murals depicting historical and mythological scenes.

Ancestral Hall
Main Hall
Experience the spiritual heart of the temple, dedicated to ancestors, with ornate altars and traditional decor.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Hours for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful entry. :pray:
Go Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds for a more serene visit. :clock:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers. Ask permission before close-ups. :camera:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and standing. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful entry. :pray:
Go Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds for a more serene visit. :clock:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers. Ask permission before close-ups. :camera:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and standing. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple for its stunning Cantonese architecture, vibrant rooftop figurines, and intricate carvings. It's lauded as a beautiful and historically significant landmark offering a peaceful escape. Some note that parking can be difficult and suggest visiting during less crowded times for a better experience.
"Located at the southern end of Petaling Street, Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Ancestral Hall is one of the oldest and most beautifully preserved clan houses in Kuala Lumpur. Built in the early 1900s, its intricate wood carvings, elaborate roof decorations, and colorful ceramic figurines tell stories of Chinese legends and history. The hall is both a place of worship and a cultural landmark, offering a glimpse into the heritage and traditions of the Chinese immigrant community. Quiet and atmospheric, it’s a peaceful stop amid the hustle of Chinatown and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts."
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
"A small temple, quite beautiful. I discovered it by chance. There is a fee for visiting, 4 ringgit if I remember correctly. It is worth visiting if you are in the area but it is not something not to be missed."
Paul Ciprian
"Entrance ticket is RM5 per adult, kid is free. Chin / Tan / Chan family, I feel like coming home. As my family surname is same like them. With the new Merdeka 118, added some new energy into this place. It’s like coming home to pray my ancestors. Very clean, near to Petaling Street, and Central Market. Parking is cashless RM12 only."
Eva Chin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is accessible via public transport. You can take the LRT to Plaza Rakyat or Masjid Jamek stations and then walk or take a short taxi/Grab ride. Many visitors find Grab to be the most convenient option for direct access.
Parking can be challenging in the area. It's recommended to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
From KL Sentral, you can take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line to Masjid Jamek station, then transfer to the Ampang Line towards Sri Petaling and alight at Plaza Rakyat. Alternatively, a Grab ride is a direct and quick option.
The temple has some stairs and uneven surfaces, which might pose challenges for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to check accessibility details beforehand.
Yes, Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is within walking distance of Petaling Street (Chinatown), making it a convenient stop if you're exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is generally free. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
The temple is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific holiday closures or prayer times.
While the main temple is free to enter, there might be a small fee or donation requested for the small museum area, if it's open during your visit.
It's best to visit during daylight hours. While it's a place of worship, it's also a historical monument, and access might be restricted during certain prayer ceremonies or events.
The temple is usually open daily, but it's wise to confirm if you're planning a visit on a major public holiday or during significant religious festivals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography inside prayer areas. Some specific areas might have restrictions.
The intricately decorated rooftops, the detailed exterior carvings, and the main ancestral hall offer fantastic photo opportunities. The courtyard also provides a good vantage point.
Drone usage is typically not permitted in such historical and religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
For commercial or professional shoots, you may need to obtain special permission from the temple authorities. Casual visitor photography is usually fine.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that enhances the colors and details of the temple. Early morning can also be good for softer light and fewer people.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Built in the 1900s, it's one of Kuala Lumpur's oldest Cantonese clan temples, serving as a spiritual and community hub for the Chan clan. It showcases traditional Chinese architecture and craftsmanship.
Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for it being an active place of worship.
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend admiring the details and exploring the grounds.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised, but you can often find local guides in the vicinity or explore independently, soaking in the atmosphere.
The rooftop figurines are often representations of deities, mythical creatures, and historical figures from Chinese folklore, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short to maintain children's interest. Focus on the most visually striking elements. The temple's location near other attractions like Petaling Street also makes it an easy addition to a family-friendly itinerary without being overwhelming.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of worshippers and always ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. Explore different angles in the courtyard and focus on the textures and patterns that make this temple unique. Early mornings or late afternoons will offer the best light and fewer crowds, allowing for more creative freedom.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels
Inside, the temple continues to impress with its ornate altars and traditional design. The ancestral hall is the spiritual heart, dedicated to the veneration of ancestors, a cornerstone of Chinese clan temples. The craftsmanship evident in every detail, from the wooden beams to the decorative panels, speaks to a rich heritage and skilled artistry that has been preserved over time.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Visiting the temple offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese religious practices and social structures. It's a living monument that continues to be a place of worship and a cultural landmark. Understanding its history enriches the visitor experience, highlighting its importance not just as a beautiful building, but as a repository of cultural memory and community identity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit