Bendigo Joss House Temple — Attraction in North Bendigo

It had been many years since my last visit to the Bendigo Joss House, and I was delighted to return today, Saturday, at its opening time of 10:30 a.m. Entry was by donation. I was warmly welcomed by a friendly staff member (or perhaps a volunteer), who shared fascinating insights into the temple’s history and the meaning of the word Joss, derived from the Portuguese word Dios, meaning “god.”

Once, there were at least eight Joss Houses in the surrounding region, and this one stands proudly as the last surviving example. Built in the 1870s using handmade red bricks, the temple is divided into three main areas: the Caretaker’s Residence, the Entrance Chamber with the Main Altar, and the Ancestral Hall.

In 1964, the National Trust saved this beautiful site from being turned into a carpark for the nearby Ordnance Factory, an act that preserved an important part of Bendigo’s Chinese heritage.

The Joss House is not only a striking building but also a living reminder of the Chinese community’s contribution to Bendigo’s history. The displays of historical artifacts and their stories are truly worth exploring.

A big thank you to the welcoming staff member who generously shared his knowledge and passion for this remarkable piece of history. The Bendigo Joss House is a treasure well...

If this place is of religious significance to you, then by all means, go ahead. If it's not, then read the reviews ahead of time and decide if this is something you'd like. Mentioning this because I didn't read the reviews and ended up being disappointed.

Very small area with different places to worship. Was personally not very interesting, even with the writeups.

Two stars for 01) this place is 150 years old (and the ticket goes to the upkeep) and 02) the lovely Manager who was friendly and informative.

Go to the Golden Dragon Museum instead, it has the history of the Chinese settlement in Bendigo as well...

We visited this lovely temple four years ago. I was surprised by how well the owner maintained the temple, and lots of understanding of the Chinese culture he possessed, especially he is not any Chinese descendant. I worshiped Guan Gong here and soon after that I got my first job in Australia. That was amazing. I am very surprised that the temple is free, but as I always do and encourage my friends to do, is to donate to help the owner preserve it. Remember it is also to preserve your own culture overseas. Thanks...