Malaysia Thean Hou Temple, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Thean Hou Temple is one of Kuala Lumpur's most spectacular Chinese temples and a highly photogenic location. The six-tiered complex combines traditional Chinese architectural elements with Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian influences and is dedicated primarily to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess. The temple was completed in 1987 and officially opened in 1989.

The combination of elaborate roofs, brilliant red architecture, hundreds of lanterns, carved details and elevated views over Kuala Lumpur provides a wide variety of photographic opportunities. The temple is particularly impressive after dark when the illuminated architecture and lanterns create strong colours and reflections. Seasonal Chinese New Year decorations can make the location even more spectacular.

Visit around sunset and stay after dark to capture both daylight architecture and the illuminated temple. A wide-angle lens is useful for the main entrance, roofs and large architectural compositions, while a telephoto or standard lens works well for carvings, statues and decorative details.

Look for symmetrical compositions along stairways and temple entrances. Shoot from different levels to isolate the layered roofs against the Kuala Lumpur skyline. At night, use a tripod where practical and keep ISO as low as possible.

The temple is easily reached by car, taxi or Grab. The official address is 65, Persiaran Endah, and the temple has parking facilities. The access road is relatively steep because the temple sits on Robson Heights.

The temple is officially open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, including public holidays. There is no entrance fee, but keep in mind: at 8pm all lights will shut down completely and then, there is: pure darkness ;)

Plan your shots accordingly