Goddess of Mercy (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Goddess of Mercy?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Kids can count giant incense coils, join free weekend crafts and watch lion-dance rehearsals, yet open flames, thick smoke, no playground and tight aisles demand constant parental vigilance.
Positives:
- Free entry: Temple entry has no fee, so families can explore without cost.
- Hands-on learning: Weekend workshops let kids try traditional crafts for free.
- Rest spots: Benches and the hidden courtyard offer places to sit and recharge.
Challenges:
- Incense smoke: Burning coils can create heavy smoke that may irritate young children.
- Crowded at peak times: Mid-morning and weekends can be busy, limiting space around altars.
What is Goddess of Mercy?
- A Taoist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Guanyin, founded in the early 19th century and recognized as Penang’s oldest Chinese temple
- An ornate shrine showcasing Fujianese architectural elements, with intricately carved wooden beams, stone lion guardians and towering hanging incense coils
- Situated on Pitt Street within George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage zone, forming part of a historic streetscape of temples, mosques and colonial shophouses
What is so special about Goddess of Mercy for with kids?
- Free entry with interactive features like incense coils and ancient wells
- Weekend craft workshops offer hands-on art experiences for kids
- Hidden courtyard provides a quiet rest spot under a 500-year-old Bodhi tree
- Traditional fortune-telling adds a fun family activity
- Nearby local snacks reward young explorers with mango pudding and pancakes
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit allows time to explore the temple, join a workshop, and enjoy local snacks without tiring kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Goddess of Mercy
Count incense coils and ancient wells:
Kids can count giant hanging incense coils and spot three old wells in the courtyard.
Tip: Give each child a simple checklist to mark found items.
Join weekend craft workshops:
Local NGOs run free paper-cutting and calligraphy classes beside the temple.
Tip: Arrive by 2 PM on weekends to secure a spot in small classes.
Shake fortune sticks:
Try traditional bamboo stick divination for a family blessing.
Tip: Ask volunteers to help translate the message slips.
Explore hidden courtyard:
Find the secluded garden with a 500-year-old Bodhi tree behind the main hall.
Tip: Use this quiet spot for a family photo or snack break.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Goddess of Mercy
- Visit early: Arrive by 7 AM to find calmer air and clearer views before crowds build.
- Combine with snacks: After exploring, head to Ah Ming Dessert Shop behind the temple for mango pudding.
- Follow photo route: Use the Pitt Street entrance to begin at the courtyard and loop through the hidden garden.
Reviews of Goddess of Mercy
chris khoo
Kuan Yin See, or Temple of the Goddess of Mercy, is a Taoist temple along Jalan Burma. This is a different temple from the Kuan Im Teng, also translated as the Goddess of Mercy Temple, of Pitt Street. The Kuan Yin See was founded in 1922 by Ben Zhong, the second abbot of Kek Lok Si Temple who was also the one who built the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas. At the entrance to the temple is a name plaque an...
Cristinelai Zy
very nice. pray tai sui. incense rm15, candle rm20. luck table rm128
Cindy Cecillia
Visited here for Kew Ong Yeah Festival. What a great experience!
Dominic Goh
Charming place. Ever helpful staff will guide you on the sequence of prayers.
Yousef Ahmed
If you are not Chinese and looking to know more about culture this is the place . The only problem there is no translated labels , guides or poeple to help you to discover there culture . Guess all poeple there for worship
When is the best time to visit Goddess of Mercy (Penang, Malaysia)?
On Guanyin’s birthday (Lunar Feb 19), watch lion-dance rehearsals in the courtyard. During Mid-Autumn Festival, stay for evening lantern displays and mooncake sharing.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Incense spiral donation | MYR 5 |
| Weekend craft workshop | MYR 0 |
| Mango sago pudding (2 servings) | MYR 24 |
| Savory pancake (2 pieces) | MYR 12 |
| Total Estimated | MYR 41 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Goddess of Mercy
Address: 70, Jalan Burma, 10500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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About Goddess of Mercy
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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