Yokohama Kuan Ti Miao — Attraction in Yokohama

According information posted online by what seems to be a community or neighborhood association of Chinatown, the Kantei-Byo (関帝廟) temple is dedicated to a famous general depicted in a Chinese historical novel who became an inspiration to Chinese immigrants arriving in Japan starting back in the late 1870s. The general was revered for his sense of loyalty, righteousness, and business skills--traits that held a special appeal to the new immigrants who must have struggled as they started building a community, starting new business, and making a new start for the lives of their families.

Kantei-Byo Temple is now a popular tourist destination as well as a holy site where the local Chinese can have their spiritual, social and cultural needs met.

Originally built in 1862, the temple was rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923. It was rebuilt again after the fire bombing during WWII, and rebuilt one more time after a fire in 1981 that was caused by a lightning strike. Tragically, that temple had to be rebuilt a fourth time in 1986 after suffering from another fire that engulfed the structure.

No matter where you go in Chinatown, it's hard not to miss the various designs and postures of dragons.

As evening got darker, I was fortunate to come across one of many dragons on the roofline of Kantei-Byo Temple. From what I understand, dragons are a symbol of power, strength, and good luck for many people in East Asian cultures. They don't seem to hold the same persona of evil and wickedness as more commonly found in western literature or modern...

Kuan Ti Miao is a Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, the legendary general from the Three Kingdoms period, worshipped as the god of loyalty, justice, and commerce. The current building was completed in 1990, after the previous temples were destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake (1923), WWII air raids, and a fire in 1986.

The temple is a masterpiece of traditional southern Chinese architecture, with richly carved dragons and phoenixes, red columns, and golden decorations covering nearly every surface. The main altar enshrines Guan Yu in his green robe, flanked by his loyal attendants. Incense offerings and divination sticks can be purchased at the entrance, and visitors are welcome to make a wish for prosperity, health, or harmony.

I visited today and found it both vibrant and peaceful. The air was filled with incense and every detail — from the ceiling carvings to the massive drum — reflected extraordinary craftsmanship. It’s one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Taoist temples in Japan, and definitely worth a visit when exploring...

The Kuan Ti Miao Temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese culture and traditions.

I was captivated by the temple's serene and spiritual ambiance. The intricate architectural details and vibrant red color scheme created a visually stunning setting. The smell of incense filled the air, adding to the mystical atmosphere and transporting me to a different world.

The temple's friendly and knowledgeable staff further enhanced my visit. They were more than willing to answer any questions I had and share insights into the temple's history and significance. Their warm hospitality made me feel welcome and added a personal touch to the experience.

Moreover, the location of the Kuan Ti Miao Temple in Yokohama's China Town is ideal. It is nestled among a myriad of authentic Chinese shops, eateries,...