[Pay-As-You-Wish Tour] The Story of Mazu

[Free // Pay-As-You-Wish Tour] The Story of Mazu @ Yueh Hai Ching Temple

Surrounded by tall clear skyscrapers in the heart of the Central Business District, Yueh Hai Ching Temple (粤海清庙) is one of Singapore’s oldest Chinese temples. Fondly known as Wak Hai Cheng Bio in Teochew, the temple is the living national monument and testimony to the contributions of Teochew Chinese pioneers who arrived in Singapore shortly after the arrival of the British in 1819. It is also probably the only twin temple in Singapore.

Mazu, 媽祖, is the most popular and well respected Goddess of the Sea by the Chinese around the world. Mazu, was born in the 960CE in China, Putian, MeiZhou Island to a family of 9 including her. After she was born, she do not cry and only started to speak when she is 2 years old. Hence, her father (Lin Yuan, 林愿） named her as Lin Mo (林默).

At a young age, she was known to be able to predict the events and forecast weather for the villagers, who mostly are fishermen. This in return prevent the loss of lives at the sea. Later on, she was known to learn and practice medicine for the villagers for free.

However, at the age of 28 in 987CE, she sacrificed herself while saving others. Other version claim that she bid farewell to her family and was seen to rise to the heaven.

After her death, she was known and recorded by many including the voyager Zheng Ho, whenever there is a turmoil at sea, a lady in red will appear in the heaven to save them. Soon, the belief of Mazu and her devotees grew in number and widespread. In the imperial Chinese times, even across several dynasties, she was canonized by many different Emperors in recognition of her. She was later promoted to the highest title possible and known as The Holy Empress(Mother) of the Heaven (天上聖母)

In recent time in 2009, the Mazu Belief and Customs was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UNESCO.

Hence, what is the association with many Chinese Singaporeans and did it play an important role to our forefathers in the 1800s? Why is there several temples built in the downtown dedicated to her and how is the location a testimony to our history?

Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Mazu as our knowledgeable guide take you on a one-hour tour through the temple. Learn about the origins of this revered deity and the fascinating legends surrounding her. Marvel at the intricate architecture and beautiful artwork that adorn the temple, all while immersing yourself in the mystical atmosphere.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about different cultures, this tour offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Mazu and her importance in Singapore's heritage. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

These tours are FREE, but tips are welcome and greatly appreciated. There is no obligation to tip and each participant can give comfortably according to their budget. Tips are on voluntary basis and we believe that they are in direct proportion to the quality of the tour, professionalism and the service provided by the guides.

NOTE:
1. This guided tour will be conducted physically by a Licensed STB Tourist Guide.
2. Limited slots are available, please register early to avoid disappointment.
3. In case of unforeseen circumstances, HeyLadTour reserves the right to change the itinerary at short notice without prior notice to the ticket holder.
4. This guided tour will only proceed when there is a minimum of 4 participants. HeyLadTour reserves all rights to cancel the tour and refund all participants at short notice to the ticket holder.
5. Please note that photographs and videos of attendees may be taken at this event. HeyLadTour may use these photographs and videos for publicity and outreach purposes.
6. In the event that the ticket holder is unable to attend the event, tickets are non-refundable.