Ling Gwan Kiong Temple, located in Singaraja, Buleleng Regency, is one of the oldest and most sacred Chinese temples in North Bali.
Established in 1873, this iconic place of worship showcases a rich blend of cultural and architectural heritage, rooted in the long-standing relationship between Balinese kingdoms and the Qing Dynasty of China.
With its striking red-and-gold color scheme and traditional Chinese architecture, the temple has become a significant spiritual destination and a must-visit site for cultural travelers.
History of Ling Gwan Kiong Temple
The temple was built during the 12th year of the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, as inscribed on a plaque above the main deity’s altar.
Originally, the worship of the deity Tan Hu Cin Jin (Chen Fu Zhen Ren) took place across the street where a shop stands today.
In 1873, the temple was moved to its current location on Jl. Erlangga No. 65, facing the north shore and the former Buleleng Port.
Ling Gwan Kiong, also known as Ling Yuan Gong in Hokkien, translates to “The Palace of Sacred Source.”
This temple was constructed as a Tridharma place of worship, serving followers of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism.
Over the years, the temple has undergone renovations, most notably in 1970, 1993, and 2002, all funded by the local Chinese community and donors from cities like Denpasar, Surabaya, and Jakarta.
Spiritual Significance and Sacred Architecture
Inside the temple, visitors will find a serene atmosphere accentuated by a lotus pond, decorative dragons, and intricate carvings of deities worshiped by Tridharma devotees.
A unique feature is the open-roof design and the presence of turtles in the central pond—symbols of longevity and spiritual endurance.
The main deity worshipped here is Tan Hu Cin Jin, believed to be a powerful ancestral figure whose divine energy connects Bali and East Java.
He is often depicted with two mythical companions—Ji Kong Co (a crocodile) and Sha Kong Co (a tiger)—symbols of strength and spiritual guardianship.
Cultural Importance and Survival Through History
Remarkably, Ling Gwan Kiong survived the World War II era untouched, even during the 1945 Allied attack in Buleleng.
While nearby structures were destroyed, the temple remained intact—an event seen by many as a testament to its spiritual power.
The temple also holds cultural significance. Before the Japanese occupation, the area near the temple was a hub for traditional Balinese performances such as joged, arja, and janger.
These performances were often held during temple ceremonies beneath a massive banyan tree that has since been replaced by a sulfur warehouse.
A Temple Close to Tourism Hotspots
Ling Gwan Kiong is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Lovina Beach, making it an ideal stop after dolphin-watching tours.
Visitors can explore the historic Dutch-era bridge just 50 meters east of the temple and admire the restored garden and gate built in 2004 under the leadership of local youth and the Buleleng government.
Visit Ling Gwan Kiong Temple
Today, Ling Gwan Kiong is not only a place of worship but also a vital cultural landmark in Singaraja.
It welcomes domestic and international tourists who wish to experience spiritual peace, admire Chinese-Balinese architecture, or learn about the unique history of Chinese-Indonesian culture in Bali. Address: Jl. Erlangga No. 65, Kampung Bugis, Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a historical journey, or spiritual insight, Ling Gwan Kiong Temple is an unforgettable destination in the heart of North Bali. (BT)
Image Source: bulelengkab.go.id
