Chinese New Year 2026 Southern Lion Dance Blessing Ceremony at Kuan Yin Temple (Kuan Yin Teng)

A blessing ceremony for the lions which takes place at the old Kuan Yin Temple in George Town during Chinese New Year. Several vibrant southern-style lions in turquoise, pink, and yellow can be seen performing at the temple courtyard as part of the blessing ceremony.

Penang’s southern-style lions trace back to southern Chinese migrant roots, were sustained by local martial arts and community groups, and later evolved in Malaysia into a highly trained, competition-driven performance tradition while remaining central to festive and blessing ceremonies.

Penang Chinese New Year Scene at Kuan Yin Temple

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.

George Town Street View: A Temple of lanterns

The old Kuan Yin Temple (also known locally as Kuan Im Teng, or the Goddess of Mercy’s Temple), which is located at Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling (formerly Pitt Street) in George Town.

George Town Street View: Kuan Yin Temple Lanterns

Kuan Yin Temple Lanterns

The old Kuan Yin Temple at Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling (or Kapitan Keling Mosque Street) is beautifully decorated with hanging red lanterns during Chinese New Year festival in George Town.

George Town Street View: CHINA STREET (Lebuh China)

China Street

China Street

China Street

China Street (or Lebuh China), is one of the main and oldest streets within the heritage area of George Town. The street was predominantly populated by Chinese settlers during the late 1700s and it runs from Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling to Beach Street as well as crosses a few other streets in the area.

The Kuan Yin temple of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling (Pitt Street) can be seen facing this road directly.