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The Serene Sanctuary of Tin How Temple

Discover tranquility at Tin How Temple, the oldest Taoist temple in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, and immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions.

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Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, the Tin How Temple stands as a serene sanctuary dedicated to the Taoist goddess of the sea, Ma Zu. This spiritual haven offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the area, where incense fills the air and the sound of chanting invites contemplation. With its intricate architecture and vibrant offerings, Tin How Temple is a must-visit for those seeking both peace and a deeper understanding of Taoist traditions.

A brief summary to Tin How Temple

  • 125 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
  • +1415-986-2520
  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and fully appreciate the temple's serene ambiance.
  • Respect the local customs; it's customary to bow before the altars and burn incense as a sign of reverence.
  • Take your time to explore the intricate details of the temple's architecture and murals for a deeper cultural understanding.
  • Check the temple's hours before visiting, as it has limited opening times on certain days.
  • Consider visiting during a festival for a unique cultural experience, as the temple often hosts special ceremonies.
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Getting There

  • BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)

    If you are in Walnut Creek, head to the Walnut Creek BART station located at 200 N Broadway. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. Stay on the train for about 30 minutes and get off at the Montgomery St. station. Once you exit the station, head towards the 2nd St. exit. Once you are on street level, walk west along Market St. for about 2 blocks until you reach Kearny St. Turn left onto Kearny St. and continue walking until you reach Waverly Pl. Turn right onto Waverly Pl., and the Tin How Temple will be on your left at 125 Waverly Pl.

  • Bus

    From Walnut Creek, you can take the County Connection bus #5 towards Martinez. Get off at the Walnut Creek BART station. From there, board the bus #28 towards San Francisco. This bus will take you directly to the Transbay Terminal. Once you arrive at the Transbay Terminal, walk towards the Salesforce Park and exit towards Mission St. Walk along Mission St. and then turn left onto 1st St. Continue until you reach Kearny St., then turn right. Walk straight until you reach Waverly Pl., where you will turn left, and the Tin How Temple will be on your left side at 125 Waverly Pl.

  • Walking

    If you are already in downtown Walnut Creek, you can walk to the Walnut Creek BART station at 200 N Broadway. From there, take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. After about 30 minutes, get off at Montgomery St. station. When you exit, head towards the 2nd St. exit. Walk along Market St. for about 2 blocks and turn left onto Kearny St. Walk until you reach Waverly Pl. and turn right. The Tin How Temple will be on your left at 125 Waverly Pl.

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Discover more about Tin How Temple

Tin How Temple, situated in the bustling enclave of Chinatown in San Francisco, is a captivating blend of spirituality and cultural heritage. As the oldest Taoist temple in the city, it serves as a spiritual haven dedicated to Ma Zu, the goddess of the sea, revered by many for her protection and guidance. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the aromatic embrace of incense burning at the altars, where locals and tourists alike come to offer prayers and seek blessings. The vibrant colors of the temple's architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and traditional motifs, reflect the artistic craftsmanship that has been preserved through generations. The temple's serene atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the lively streets of Chinatown outside. Here, visitors can take a moment to pause, meditate, or simply appreciate the spiritual ambiance. The walls are adorned with beautifully painted murals depicting various Taoist deities and legends, inviting exploration and reflection. Each corner of the temple tells a story, offering insights into the Taoist belief system and its significance within the Chinese community. Tin How Temple is not just a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that encapsulates the essence of Chinatown's history. When visiting, take the time to observe the rituals and the devotion of worshippers, which can provide a profound understanding of the local customs and traditions. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat or an opportunity to learn about Taoism, Tin How Temple promises an enriching experience that connects visitors to the spiritual heritage of San Francisco's Chinatown.

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