The Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Temple, also popularly known as 500 Lohan Temple is a Buddhist place of worship located in that was inaugurated in 2017. Located about 10 kilometers from the center of Tanjungpinang, this temple is surrounded by large rice fields and is separated from the hustling and bustling of the city. This gives the temple a perfect sense of serenity, allowing the visitors to fully immerse themselves in the temple's atmosphere.

The name of this monastery is taken from one of the most revered figures named Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Besides being used as the name of the monastery, you will also see his large statue as you enter the temple's area. The entrance of the temple is decorated by an impressive archway guarded by the statue of General Heng and General Ha, two generals of the Shang dynasty in Chinese mythology.

As you proceed from the main hall, you will enter the garden where the main attraction of the temple is located. 500 life-sized stone statues of Arhat stand orderly in rows on each of the steps at the edge of the garden with each of their names engraved at the base of the statues. Each of these statues has unique physiques and facial expressions that depict the characteristics and story of each Arhat. This set of statues is a perfect object for photographers and has become such an icon that gives the temple its nickname. Facing the 500 arahats are the statues of another three great Bodhisattvas; Wen Shu Bodhisattva sitting on a lion, Puxian Bodhisattva sitting on an elephant, and Guan Yin holding a willow.

If you decide to proceed to ascend the stairs to the upper level, you will find a few additional statues and a prayer room. The upper level is also a perfect place to view the temple's perimeter from a different perspective.

The 500 Lohan Temple might not be easy to reach since it is located in a secluded location. But as one of the most iconic tourism spots in Bintan Island, 500 Lohan Temple should be on your itinerary when you visit Bintan Island.

To visit the 500 Lohan Temple and many other unique destinations around Bintan, check our Gods and Dragons tour package, or click here to see the list of available tour packages. Bintan Island is waiting for you.