Mother, Baby & Kids

6 Must-Visit Chinese New Year Photo-Ops and Temples for Your Family

Get ready for an exciting adventure as we celebrate Chinese New Year this weekend!

Firstly, we understand travelling with kids can be challenging at times. We hear and feel you, mummies.

So, let these super parents share their tips with you. Their techniques make travelling with the little ones easy and stress-free.

Now that you’re ready to travel with the little ones, let’s continue.

While many establishments may be closed to ring in the Year of the Water Rabbit, this is also the perfect time to explore Malaysian cities as most locals return to their hometowns.

Don’t worry, you’ll still find many malls and F&Bs, as well as most popular tourist destinations open for visitors over CNY.

But the real highlight is visiting temples during this joyous occasion. They truly come to life every new year.

So, pack your bags and come join in the celebration as we share six gorgeous Chinese New Year photo-ops and temples to visit with your family!

Kek Lok Si Temple during Chinese New Year

Calling all Penang lang!

It’s that time of the year again for everyone to visit Penang’s Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, for a unique Chinese New Year experience.

In fact, any Malaysian—not just Penangites—would likely know that CNY and Kek Lok Si Temple Lighting and Fireworks Display go hand-in-hand each year.

To welcome the Year of the Water Rabbit, The Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang was lit up on 17th January 2023 with a prosperous fireworks display. This marks the first and the lights will be on for a month until 18 February 2023.

Without a doubt, this is a must-visit for that perfect photo-op with your family amongst the beautiful lights surrounding the temple this CNY.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to extend some donations and receive blessings from the monks.

May the new year be auspicious and filled with good health for you and your family!

Thean Hou Temple

The Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur during Chinese New Year is an experience full of vibrant celebrations!

The temple is beautifully decorated with 10,000 red lanterns and stone carvings imported from China depicting 24 stories of filial piety.

On the eve of Chinese New Year, a countdown event welcomes the arrival of Cai Shen, the God of Prosperity or Wealth, and devotees can receive new year blessings until 3:00 a.m.

If you’re in KL, remember to head over and don’t miss out on the opportunity to take photographs with your kids there!

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple during Chinese New Year

Visit the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia and Southeast Asia!

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, also known as Kwan Yin Teng (and Temple of Green Cloud) was founded in 1645. Located near Jonker Walk, it is indeed an impressive sight.

Grab those shots and don’t miss out on the chance to explore its rich culture and traditions during your CNY trip to Melaka this year!

Sekinchan Wishing Tree

Escape to Sekinchan, a peaceful fishing village on the edge of Selangor! Explore the rustic environment and make a wish at the Sekinchan Wishing Tree.

Sekinchan Wishing Tree is a tree in Pantai Redang, Sekinchan. Located next to the Pantai Redang Datuk Kong Temple, it became known by said name because it is where believers toss their wishes to its branches.

Enter the temple, make an offering, then tie a red cloth with your wishes on the tree. It is said that the higher you toss your cloth, the more likely your wish will come true.

Make a wish for good health and prosperity this Chinese New Year! Don’t forget to capture the lovely memory in stills while you’re at it, mummies.

Puu Jih Shih Temple

Visit Puu Jih Shih Temple, located near Sandakan town, for an elevated Chinese New Year experience!

This beautiful temple, perched on a hilltop, features three grand statues and intricate dragon-wrapped pillars—perfect for your CNY photo-op with the fam!

During this festive time of the year, it’s a must-see destination to experience the beauty of Chinese culture in Sabah.

Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the temple, appreciate the beauty of the intricate pillars and statues, and receive blessings from the monks.

Siew San Teng Temple

If Sarawak is in your plans this CNY, make sure to visit the beautiful Siew San Teng Temple, also known as Tua Pek Kong Temple of Kuching.

Siew San Teng Temple is the earliest and oldest Chinese temple built near the waterfront of Kuching, Sarawak.

Located at the start of the Main Bazaar and built on a small hill in 1823, this prominent temple offers a stunning view of the Sarawak River.

It’s a popular spot for tourists and devotees alike, especially during Chinese New Year when its beauty and decorations are at their peak.

Make sure to take some photos and receive blessings from the monks!

Scenic Spots for Your Chinese New Year Family Photos

Chinese New Year is a wonderful time to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in Asia.

From the Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur to the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple in Melaka, these six temples provide the perfect opportunity to experience vibrant Chinese celebrations, appreciate stunning architecture and decorations, and receive blessings from the monks.

With so many amazing places to choose from, you can be sure that this Chinese New Year will be one to remember!

Chinese New Year celebrations have received a modern makeover! Check out these 5 ways the festivities have been spruced up to keep up with the times.

Motherhood wishes you and your family a Happy Chinese New Year full of love and prosperity, Gong Xi Fa Cai!