Sin Sze Si Ya Temple — Attraction in Kuala Lumpur

Have travel & safety concern feeling quite uneasy about a trip I'm planning to London UK, it was suggested I go pray at Sin Sze Si Ya Temple for this trip.

Arrived 8am on a Friday, it was raining so there were almost no visitor. [Step 1] I saw the lady in charge of writing down our prayer details immediately, explained my concern, and she wrote on the special red paper the following

Names, lunar birthdates (with time) of travellers Travel details: [ Give Name of Airline ] || Outbound flight || Date and time of departure flight + Departure airport and country name + Flight number Date and time of arrival + Arrival airport (or destination name, country) || Return flight || Date and time of departure flight + Departure airport and country name + Flight number Date and time of arrival + Arrival airport (or destination name, country)

Note: remember to write transiting information too where applicable: Date and time arrival at transiting airport + name of airport/city and country name Date and time of departure from transiting airport

I gave the lady a small angpow for the service.

Then [Step 2] I paid at the cashier desk for my prayer incense + candle + yellow fu papers, and Maria came to instruct me to [Step 3] light the candles first, then the 3 large incense stick, and finally the bunch of smaller incense sticks. After praying and putting small incense at all the deities' altars, go back to the centre altar and Maria directed me to the correct spot to wait for sifu. Sifu came over almost immediately to [Step 4] read out my prayers, I followed sifu's instruction to hold the fu papers and bow whenever sifu said "bai". I gave sifu a small angpow also as token of appreciation.

After the prayers are read, sifu give me final instructions about bathing with the flowers etc and I went back to the center altar to thank Maria. She told me [Step 5] to burn the fu papers before I go off.

Entire process took 45 mins.

tldr;

Bring along: Name, date and time of birth Flight date, flight time, airline name, airport name, country name, flight code Cash (angpow discretionary)

Step 1: Have temple clerk write prayer paper Step 2: Payment + collect candles, incense and fu papers Step 3: Light candles, incense according to instruction Step 4: Sifu administer prayer Step 5:...

100% recommended, FREE admission. Located just about 200 meters away, this temple is way more significant but way more humble than the famous Guan Di Temple Chinatown near Petaling Street.

THE TEMPLE With the small entrance tugged between buildings, most will not notice it. Only the locals will know there is a temple hidden within. The temple is small, with many God statues for prayers, every corner has a history. Although it was a weekday morning, there was quite a good traffic of pilgrims visiting and came for prayers. Although busy and full of incense, you will feel the calmness and serenity within.

PARKING or TRANSPORTATION Park at the open parking at Pasar Seni, less than 200 meters away. But best to take public transport, e.g. MRT or LRT, stop at Pasar Seni or Masjid Jamek Station.

THE HISTORY Built in 1864, the temple was founded by Yap Ah Loy, a revered Chinese pioneer who played an indelible role in the development of Kuala Lumpur (KL). Since its inception, the Sin Sze Si Ya Temple has thrived as a guardian of Kuala Lumpur, akin to a City God Temple, witnessing the vicissitudes of the area's fortunes. The earliest procession of the Sin Sze Si Ya Temple can be traced back to 1887, with approximately 40,000 Chinese participants. In 1900, the procession celebration lasted 10 days with most Chinese businesses closed to participate in the celebration.

TIPS: Worth visiting the museum right in front of the temple to understand more about...

My visit to Sin Sze Si Ya Temple was a serene and enlightening experience. Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape, this temple stands as a tranquil oasis of cultural significance.

Upon entering the temple grounds, I was immediately struck by the beauty of its architecture. The intricate details of the pagodas and ornate carvings showcased the rich history and craftsmanship of Chinese culture.

Inside, the atmosphere was imbued with a sense of peace and reverence. The scent of incense filled the air as worshippers paid homage to the deities, creating a spiritual ambiance that was both humbling and inspiring.

As I explored the temple grounds, I was captivated by the beauty of the surrounding buildings. Offering a welcome respite from the chaos of daily life.

The temple staff were friendly and welcoming, providing insight into the traditions and customs observed within the temple walls. Their hospitality added to the overall experience, making me feel truly welcomed and appreciated as a visitor.

Overall, my visit to Sin Sze Si Ya Temple was a memorable one. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply wish to immerse yourself in the beauty of Chinese culture, this temple offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. I highly recommend taking the time to visit and experience the tranquility...