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San Francisco, California / Religious sites

Tin How Temple

One of the oldest operating Chinese temples in the United States, this serene sanctuary dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu is tucked away on the upper floors of a Chinatown building.

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Tin How Temple
Tim Olson, CC BY-SA 2.0

What is the Tin How Temple known for?

It is the oldest extant Taoist temple in San Francisco's Chinatown and one of the oldest still-operating Chinese temples in the United States. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess known in Cantonese as Tin How.

What are the hours?

The temple is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., except on holidays.

Is it free?

Yes, admission is free with permission from the attendant, though donations or offerings are accepted and customary for temple upkeep.

Can I take photos inside?

No, photography is not allowed inside the temple.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?

Visitors must use the stairs to reach the temple, which is located on the third or fourth floor of its building.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Tin How Temple is the oldest extant Taoist temple in San Francisco's Chinatown, and one of the oldest still-operating Chinese temples in the United States. Founded in 1852 by a Cantonese clan association, the temple is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess known in Cantonese as Tin How, the Empress of Heavens. Early Chinese migrants to the United States sought her blessings for safe passage across the ocean, and the temple was established in gratitude for those protections. While much of the structure collapsed during the 1906 earthquake, the temple's altar miraculously survived the disaster. The owners later rebuilt the sanctuary in the same location at 125 Waverly Place. Today, the experience is defined by a reverent hush and the scent of sandalwood incense. The interior is decorated with hundreds of glass lanterns, each with a red prayer card hanging from it, and various shrines. To reach the sanctuary, visitors must climb three flights of stairs to the third or fourth floor of the building. Once inside, you will find hanging red lanterns and views of downtown San Francisco. Despite its historical significance, the temple remains a small, intimate space where spiritual practice continues to day. Visitors are reminded that this is an active place of worship. As such, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. Access is granted with permission from the attendant on duty, and while admission is free, voluntary donations are customary for the upkeep of the site.

Visitor tips

  • Check the hours of operation, as the temple is only open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. except holidays.
  • Leave your camera and phone in your pocket, as photography is strictly forbidden inside the temple.
  • Prepare to climb three flights of stairs to reach the temple on the upper floors.
  • Bring a small donation for the temple's upkeep, as entry is free but offerings are customary.

Nearby context

Located on Waverly Place, the Tin How Temple is nestled among the narrow alleys and historic buildings of Chinatown, within walking distance of the Moongate Lounge and Li Po Cocktail Lounge.

Sources

Evidence and links