Originally established as Kwan Im Teng in 1650 by Lieutenant Kwee Hoen.
The temple was renamed Jin De Yuan by the Chinese community during the Qing Dynasty era.
It is the central site for major lunar calendar celebrations in Jakarta, particularly Imlek (Chinese New Year).
The 2015 fire destroyed the main altar and numerous antique statues, some of which were over 300 years old.
The complex houses multiple altars dedicated to various deities including Guan Yu and the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin.
The temple serves as a vital historical link to the Batavia era, surviving various sociopolitical upheavals throughout Jakarta's history.
Dharma Bakti Temple, also known as Vihara Dharma Bhakti or Jin De Yuan, is the oldest Buddhist temple in Jakarta, dating back to 1650. Located in the heart of Glodok, Jakarta's historic Chinatown, it functions as a center for Chinese cultural and religious life. The complex features traditional Fujianese architecture, characterized by red-brick walls, ornate roof ridges, and intricate wood carvings. It underwent significant reconstruction following a major fire in 2015, which destroyed much of the main hall and many historic artifacts. The restoration efforts successfully preserved the original aesthetic and structural layout. It remains an active place of worship where visitors observe traditional incense burning and merit-making rituals. The temple is surrounded by a bustling traditional market area, reflecting the historic commercial atmosphere of the Petak Sembilan district.
The ornate entrance gate and the main courtyard filled with smoke from incense burners.
Visit during early morning to see the local community performing morning prayers and offerings.
Respect worshippers by staying out of the central altar areas if you are not there to pray.
Use a wet wipe or hand sanitizer after your visit, as the temple uses large amounts of joss sticks and candles.
Avoid taking close-up photos of individuals while they are in deep prayer; do not walk directly in front of the main altars.
Extremely crowded during Chinese New Year and the 15th day of the first lunar month (Cap Go Meh).
Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum areas; maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
