Poh San Teng Temple stands at the foot of Bukit China in Melaka, beside Hang Li Poh’s Well and the Malacca Warrior Monument. Founded in 1795 and dedicated to the Taoist deity Tua Pek Kong, it has a small museum behind the main temple with a statue of Admiral Cheng Ho and displays about the temple and the area’s history. Walk through the grounds to see the well and memorial as well as the temple. Allow time to look around calmly; the site is quieter on weekdays.
A temple at the foot of Bukit China
Poh San Teng Temple is at the base of Bukit China, next to the Malacca Warrior Monument and Hang Li Poh’s Well. The hill above it is a Chinese cemetery, with graves that date back more than four centuries. The temple sits close to these historic sites, making it a useful stop for understanding this part of Melaka’s past.
Founded in 1795 during Dutch rule, the temple is dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a Taoist deity worshipped in Chinese communities in the region. The grounds also hold displays about the temple’s history, events and notable visitors.
The museum and Admiral Cheng Ho
A small museum behind the temple contains a statue of Admiral Cheng Ho, also known as Zheng He. Accounts connect him and his voyages with Bukit China: his troops are believed to have stationed there and dug wells near the hill for fresh water. The museum’s displays also cover the area’s history and changes to Bukit China.
Take time to look through the exhibits before moving on to the nearby well and memorial. The displays and surrounding landmarks together give context to the temple’s place in Melaka’s history.
Hang Li Poh’s Well and the memorial
Hang Li Poh’s Well, also called the King’s Well, is beside the temple. It was built in 1459 by followers of Hang Li Poh and became an important town water source. After the Portuguese took Melaka in 1511, they secured the well for their own supply. Dutch rulers later enclosed it with brick walls to protect it. During British rule, it fell into disrepair.
The Malacca Warrior Monument commemorates Chinese victims of the Japanese occupation. Visitors can include it in the same walk as the temple and well. If you continue up Bukit China among the graves, insect repellent is a practical precaution.
FAQ
Where is Poh San Teng Temple?
It is at the foot of Bukit China in Melaka, beside Hang Li Poh’s Well and the Malacca Warrior Monument.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow at least 30 minutes to see the temple complex and nearby sites.
What can I see inside the temple complex?
There is a small museum behind the temple with a statue of Admiral Cheng Ho and displays about the area’s history. Hang Li Poh’s Well and the Malacca Warrior Monument are next door.
When is the temple quieter?
Weekdays, especially early in the day, are a better choice for a quieter visit. Sundays and weekends can be busy with tour groups.
