LIAN SHAN SHUANG LIN MONASTERY (MONASTERY)
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This is Singapore's oldest Buddhist monastery, whose name means "twin groves of lotus mountain". Listed as a national monument since 1980, it follows the traditional architecture of the square courtyard houses of southern China, with three buildings organized around three courtyards.
A dozen bonzes still live here, accompanied by a few nuns, who are often delighted to show visitors around - a small donation would be most welcome. As soon as you enter, you'll be greeted by the Four Kings of Heaven (or Warrior Guardians), in sumptuous armour, each crushing a demon underfoot to ward off evil spirits.
The main building, Siong Lim, houses a statue of Buddha. A little further on, facing the third courtyard, stands a statue of Guan Yin, Goddess of Mercy. To the west, another building in the Taoist tradition is dedicated to the god of the city.
Before climbing the steps leading up to the temple, slip your hand into the open mouths of the guardian creatures (half-dragons, half-lions) and spin the ball stuck between their fangs three times: this will invoke prosperity, health and happiness.
This temple is also reputed to bring good luck to gamblers. Look out for the horse at the entrance, pampered by turfers. Salads and carrots are placed at its feet, and the numbers they hope to win are pinned on its headgear. A singular and fascinating place, at the crossroads of the spiritual, the popular and the artistic.
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