Caow Eng Bio Temple, Tanjung Benoa: Hainanese Sailors’ History & Visiting Tips

At the northern tip of the Tanjung Benoa peninsula, between the rows of watersport operators, stands Caow Eng Bio, a Chinese temple with blazing red pillars and a pale blue roof. It is often said to be the oldest Chinese temple in Bali, and it is still an active place of worship—it was busy with prayers for Lunar New Year 2577 in February 2026.

A Legacy of Hainanese Sailors

According to the story told by its caretakers, the temple was founded by merchants and sailors from Hainan who survived a storm and vowed to build a shrine as soon as they reached land. Local tradition dates it to 1548, during the Badung kingdom, although its inscriptions and most of its artefacts date from the late 19th century (the reign of Emperor Guangxu).

• Main deity: Shui Wei Sheng Niang, a sea goddess who protects sailors, together with the 108 Brothers of Hainan.
• Other altars honour Mazu, Guan Gong and Nezha; there is also a stage building and a dragon boat shrine.
• The wooden doors are painted with guardian deities, while wooden plaques carry words of wisdom in Chinese and Indonesian.

Harmony in One Village

Tanjung Benoa is known for its religious harmony. Close to the temple you will find Pura Dalem Ning and Pura Taman Beji, which belong to the customary village, as well as Masjid Jami’ Mujahidin, inaugurated in 1997. All three can be explored on foot through the village lanes.

Etiquette & Best Time to Visit

• Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Do not sit on or place belongings on altars and offering tables; ask before photographing people at prayer.
• Entry is free; leave a donation of your choice. Visitors usually receive a good-luck paper next to the donation box.
• The liveliest time is Lunar New Year, Saturday 6 February 2027, and Cap Go Meh around 20 February 2027—come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Practical Info & Reservations

• Location: Jl. Segara Ening No. 14, Tanjung Benoa, Kuta Selatan, Badung — View on Google Maps
• Getting there: just walk in, no reservation needed; about 15–20 minutes from the Nusa Dua hotel area and 30–45 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport. The lanes at the tip of the peninsula are narrow, so a scooter or small car is more practical.
• Opening hours: daily 06:00–21:00 WITA, until midnight on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month.
• Cost: free, voluntary donation.
• Instagram: search on Instagram
• Route idea: visit the temple in the morning, then enjoy watersports in Tanjung Benoa and have lunch at Bumbu Bali or stop by Puja Mandala.

If you want to stay near Tanjung Benoa, book a hotel voucher in the Nusa Dua area on AccessiaPass.