The date February 14th is known for an international remembrance of the guardian of lovers. But apparently this year, Saint Valentine is not the only one people paid tribute to. As the very date also fell right at the celebration of Chinese Lunar New Year.

And where else would people go to show their love during this celebration? None other than the Chinese temples or ‘klenteng’. ‘Klenteng’ are what Indonesian refers to Chinese temples. Presumably the word came from the first Chinese temple built in Java to worship the Goddess Kwam Im (Quan Yin), which is Kwam Im Teng. As time goes, the pronounciation of Kwam Im Teng then evolved to ‘klenteng’. There is also other belief that ‘klenteng’ also comes from the sound of bells ringing ‘klenteng’ that were often heard during worship procession.

Visiting the temple on Chinese Lunar New Year is obligatory for those who embraced the belief of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. People would come for worship, present offerings of fruits and drinks. You can also come for prayers, fortune telling, contemplation or even seeking for inspiration.

Known for its architectural beauty and historical legacy, people also often came for admiration purpose. If you are curious to witness the magnificence of these klentengs spread through out Bali, set your agenda to visit Vihara Amurva Bumi in Blahbatuh, Gianyar that worships Hok Tek Ceng Sin or the earth god, Zhong Yi Miao in Semarapura, the regency of Klungkung; Seng Hong Bio in Singaraja, North Bali; Cung Lin Bio in Negara, West Bali; and Kong Co Bio in Tabanan.

Visit also the oldest Chinese temple in the island, the klenteng Caow Eng or Caow Eng Bio in Tanjung Benoa. This klenteng was built some 300 years ago by a merchant to worship for Tien Sang Sen Muk (goddess of trade), Yati Kong (ancestral deities), Suiew Wie Sen Niang (goddess of the seas), and the 'sea dragon deity'.

Another old klenteng not far from there is the Vihara Dharmayana Buddhist monastery or Leeng Gwan Bio in Kuta. It is located only several hundred meters from Kuta beach. While in southern Bali, there is one unique klenteng, the Ong Tay Jen Griya Kong Co Dwipayana.

Buddhist monastery or viharas are sometimes also known as a klenteng. Even so, klenteng and viharas differs from its architecture, worship and function. In this case, the term ‘klenteng’ is used to identify all about China, dominantly red, with typical dragon statues and lions and burning incense.


Courtesy of Bali and Beyond, www.baliandbeyond.co.id