Nestled in the heart of Bukit Mertajam’s old town heritage street, Hung Kung Kong Hoay stands as a significant Chinese clan association with deep cultural roots. This historic landmark reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the local Chinese community, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring Bukit Mertajam’s vibrant heritage area.
The Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, is a significant Taoist temple dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a deity worshipped for protection, health, and prosperity. The temple is known for its rich history, dating back over a century, and its vibrant cultural practices, particularly during the Hungry Ghost Festival.
The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Chinese design, with intricate carvings and decorations. It serves as a focal point for community gatherings and religious ceremonies, attracting both devotees and tourists interested in Penang’s cultural heritage.
Built in 1931, the Penang Buddhist Association is a prominent landmark situated on Anson Road in George Town. This historic building, showcasing the old Straits Eclectic style, serves as a vibrant hub for Buddhists in Penang, hosting a variety of religious and community events, including meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and cultural celebrations.
In addition to Wesak Day, the association attracts numerous visitors on the first day of Chinese New Year, when many come to offer prayers for the new year. The Penang Buddhist Association also plays a significant role in promoting Buddhist education and charity work, supporting various local initiatives and fostering a sense of community among its members. Its beautiful architecture and serene environment make it a must-visit destination for both devotees and tourists exploring Penang’s rich cultural heritage.
May 22nd is Wesak Day here.
Street view of Lorong Carnarvon and its rows of pre-war townhouses.
As night falls, the city’s Kapitan Keling Mosque Street comes alive with the vibrant glow of red lanterns, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune during Chinese New Year.
Traditional trishaws resting after their last passengers left, offering a leisurely tour along the heritage trail during the evening. The classic shophouses, bathed in the lanterns’ warm light, stand as a testament to Penang’s rich history and cultural diversity.
A recent art mural painted by showcasing an old blacksmith at work, located at Lorong Toh Aka (Toh Aka Lane) in George Town. Toh Aka Lane is an old street used to be known as blacksmiths’ lane back in the old days of Penang.
The mural is a tribute to Chong Saik Pow, a famous blacksmith who had his workshop and origins at the lane. The art work was created by a local artist named Vincent Phang.
Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It’s particularly renowned for its striking architecture, blending elements of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese styles. The temple complex also houses a towering seven-story pagoda, known as the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Additionally, Kek Lok Si is home to a massive bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, standing at a height of 30 meters (nearly 100 feet), making it one of the tallest of its kind in the world.
The annual fire-watching festival was held at the Penang Snake Temple during the 6th lunar day of the Chinese New Year this year (which was 14 February 2024). There were also various cultural performances held alongside the fire-watching ceremony, including a traditional puppet show, lion dance and fireworks.
Legend has it that the temple, dedicated to the deity Chor Soo Kong, was inhabited by venomous pit vipers centuries ago. According to folklore, these serpents, believed to be guardians of the temple, emerged from the nearby jungle and took refuge within its walls.
Kek Lok Si Temple illuminated in a dazzling array of lights during Chinese New Year. As one of Penang’s most iconic landmarks, Kek Lok Si Temple comes alive with vibrant decorations and thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical ambiance that captures the essence of the festive season.
Located in the heart of George Town, the old Kuan Yin Temple at Kapitan Keling Mosque Street is where age-old Chinese traditions come to life in a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds. On the first day of the Chinese New Year, this historic temple transforms into a bustling hub of activity as devotees and visitors alike flock to pay homage and seek blessings for the year ahead. Kuan Yin is also known as the Goddess of Mercy.