About Vihara Dharma Bhakti
Vihara Dharma Bhakti is the oldest Chinese temple in Jakarta, located in the Glodok Chinatown area of Taman Sari, West Jakarta. Established in 1650 as Kim Tek Ie, it is dedicated to Dewi Kwan Im and serves as a major center for Chinese Buddhist worship. Known for its traditional Chinese architecture, red lanterns and incense coils, it remains an important cultural and religious landmark in Jakarta's historic Chinatown.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a historic Chinese Buddhist temple complex in the dense Glodok Chinatown area. The site features traditional Chinese architecture with ornate roofs, red pillars, lanterns, large incense coils hanging from the ceiling, altars with statues of Dewi Kwan Im and other deities, and a courtyard for prayer. The atmosphere is active with worshippers offering incense and prayers, especially during festivals. Visitors can explore the main prayer hall and observe cultural elements and restoration after the 2015 fire.
Key highlights
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Oldest Chinese temple in Jakarta, originally built in 1650
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Dedicated to Dewi Kwan Im (Guan Yin), Goddess of Mercy
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Traditional Chinese architecture with red pillars, ornate carvings and hanging incense coils
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Located in the historic Glodok Chinatown cultural area
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Major center for Chinese New Year and Cap Go Meh celebrations
History of Vihara Dharma Bhakti
Founded in 1650 by Chinese Lieutenant Kwee Hoen as Kwan Im Teng, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Jakarta. Originally named Kim Tek Ie (Jin De Yuan), it has served the Chinese community for over three centuries. The temple was severely damaged by fire on 2 March 2015 and subsequently restored, preserving its historical role in Glodok.
Culture & Context
An important center for Chinese Buddhist and Tridharma worship in Jakarta, dedicated to Dewi Kwan Im. It plays a central role in Chinese cultural and religious life in Glodok Chinatown, hosting major observances during Chinese New Year, Cap Go Meh and other Buddhist festivals, and reflects the heritage of Jakarta's Chinese community.
Route
| By air |
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