The short answer
Kim Tek Ie (Vihara Dharma Bhakti): what visitors should know first
Yes, if you are already in Glodok. It is a working temple, so go quietly, dress modestly and check the current state of restoration before you arrive; it is a short stop of 30 to 45 minutes.
History and context
The story behind Kim Tek Ie (Vihara Dharma Bhakti)
The complex is described as the oldest Chinese temple in Jakarta. The Kong Koan restored it in 1755. Wikipedia categorises it as a Taoist and Buddhist temple.
Useful facts
Kim Tek Ie (Vihara Dharma Bhakti) facts at a glance
- Location
- Petak Sembilan, Glodok, West Jakarta
- Faith
- Buddhist and Taoist; Chinese folk religion
- Dedication
- Guanyin
- Built
- 1650, restored 1755; main building burned 2 March 2015
- Visitor note
- Modest dress; check restoration status
Why it matters
Why Kim Tek Ie (Vihara Dharma Bhakti) is worth your time
Kim Tek Ie matters as evidence of how long Chinese communities have been part of Jakarta's life. The temple dates to 1650, burned during the 1740 massacre of ethnic Chinese, and was restored in 1755 and given the name Kim Tek Ie. After 1965 it was renamed Vihara Dharma Bhakti.
For a visitor, it is also a lesson in how local religion blends Buddhism and Taoism. Guanyin is familiar to Indian Buddhists as a form of Avalokiteshvara, and the temple hosts the Zhong Yuan Festival and Cap Go Meh lantern celebrations.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Guanyin
The temple was first called the Pavilion of Guanyin.
- 02
Incense and offerings
A working shrine where families come to make offerings.
- 03
Festivals
Zhong Yuan and Cap Go Meh bring large crowds.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Walk in from Petak Sembilan, passing incense sellers on the way. The temple was built in 1650 on the order of Kwee Hoen, a Luitenant der Chinezen, and is dedicated to Guanyin, whose original name was Kwan Im Teng, meaning Pavilion of Guanyin. The temple name today comes in several forms: Kim Tek Ie, Vihara Dharma Bhakti, or Jin De Yuan.
Inside, you will find a working shrine where families burn incense and make offerings. Stand back, watch the pattern of worship, and take photographs of the courtyards only where it feels respectful. Several shrines sit within the complex, including a Taoist temple inside the compound, and the main altar is dedicated to the Triple Buddha.
A fire on 2 March 2015 destroyed the main building, including its roof frame and about 40 historic sculptures, and the temple has been under restoration, so the appearance may differ from older photographs. Festivals such as Cap Go Meh bring very large crowds; avoid them if you want a quiet visit.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Dress modestly
- Ask before photographing worshippers
- Avoid festival days for a quiet visit
- Check restoration status
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Petak Sembilan, Glodok, West Jakarta
- Time needed
- 30 to 45 minutes
- Best time
- Morning, outside festival days
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Mostly level courtyards, but thick incense smoke on busy days can bother people with breathing problems. Seating is limited. The surrounding lanes are crowded.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is by donation or free; ask staff. Dress modestly and do not photograph worshippers without asking. Parts of the complex may be closed for restoration after the 2015 fire.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Kim Tek Ie (Vihara Dharma Bhakti)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Mostly level courtyards, but thick incense smoke on busy days can bother people with breathing problems. Seating is limited. The surrounding lanes are crowded.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the temple open daily?
Generally yes, but confirm on the day.
Is photography allowed?
Usually in public areas; ask before photographing worshippers.
What happened in 2015?
A fire on 2 March 2015 destroyed the main building and about 40 sculptures; restoration followed.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
