Tin How Temple, Bay Area Travel Guide

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Discover San Francisco's oldest Taoist temple, a serene tribute to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu, in the heart of Chinatown.

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, Tin How Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in the city and one of the oldest Chinese temples in the United States. Dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess, it offers a glimpse into the spiritual lives of early Chinese immigrants.

A brief summary to Tin How Temple

125 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
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Monday 9:30 am-2 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-2 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-2 pm
Friday 9:30 am-2 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-3 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-3 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tin How Temple.

Visit during the morning for a quieter experience and to observe local worshippers.
Be respectful of the temple's customs; maintain a quiet demeanor and refrain from flash photography.
Check the temple's hours before visiting, as they may vary.
Consider leaving a small donation to support the temple's upkeep.
Explore the surrounding Chinatown area for authentic cuisine and unique shops.

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Explore Tin How Temple on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tin How Temple, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Grant Avenue, the main street in Chinatown, walk one block west on either Washington or Sacramento Street to reach Waverly Place. The temple is located at 125 Waverly Place. Note that the temple is on the third floor and requires climbing stairs.
Public Transport

From Union Square, walk to the Powell Street BART station. Take the BART train towards Millbrae and get off at the Montgomery Street station. From there, transfer to the Muni 30 bus towards Bayview Hunters Point and get off at the stop at Clay St & Kearny St. Walk up Kearny St towards the east, then turn left onto Waverly Place. The temple is located at 125 Waverly Place. A single ride on BART is approximately $2.40-$4.05. A single ride on Muni is $3.
Ride Share/Taxi

From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi or rideshare to Tin How Temple will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $20-$30. The driver should drop you off at 125 Waverly Place.

Discover more about Tin How Temple

Tin How Temple, located at 125 Waverly Place in San Francisco's Chinatown, is a serene escape from the bustling city. Established in 1852 by Cantonese settlers, the temple honors Mazu (also known as Tin How), the Empress of Heaven and Goddess of the Seas, who was believed to protect seafarers during their perilous journeys across the Pacific.Over the years, the temple has faced challenges, including destruction in the 1906 earthquake. However, it was rebuilt and reopened in 1910 by the Sue Hing Benevolent Association. After a period of closure, it was revitalized in 1975, becoming a significant landmark in Chinatown. Today, Waverly Place is even known by the Chinese name 'Tin How Temple Street'.Visitors can immerse themselves in the temple's reverent atmosphere, filled with the scent of incense and adorned with hundreds of glass lanterns. The temple features ornate altars with colorful statues and offerings, reflecting the devotion of the local community. From the balcony, you can catch a glimpse of the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower. Keep in mind that photography is not allowed inside to preserve the tranquility of the space.