By: Boy Wanderer
Last weekend, our family embarked on an unforgettable journey to one of Bintan’s most unique attractions—500 Lohan Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva). With its 500 life-sized stone statues, each carved with a different expression and personality, we knew it would be an experience like no other!
A Walk Through History and Spirituality
As we stepped into the temple grounds, our kids were immediately fascinated by the towering statues that stood like guardians of wisdom. “They all look so different!” my youngest exclaimed, running from one Lohan to another, giggling at the playful expressions while admiring the serious ones.
Each statue represents a Buddhist disciple, and our guide, Mr. Ales Sandro, explained that no two figures are alike. He shared fascinating stories behind some of the statues, making the experience even more enriching. His deep knowledge and engaging storytelling kept both the kids and adults entertained. “You can see wisdom in their faces,” he said, pointing to a statue with a calm, serene expression. His enthusiasm and passion for Bintan’s history made our tour extra special.
Why This Temple is Perfect for a Family Visit
✅ A Unique Learning Experience—The kids learned about Buddhism in a fun and interactive way.
✅ A Photographer’s Paradise—The intricate details of each statue and the vast temple grounds made for some fantastic family photos.
✅ A Peaceful Escape—The tranquil surroundings provided a moment of calm, even with our little ones exploring.
✅ A Fun, Cultural Adventure—Unlike anything we’ve seen before, the temple was a highlight of our trip!
Our Favorite Moments
One of our favorite parts of the tour was exploring the main temple hall. Here, we observed traditional Buddhist architecture and offerings. The air was filled with the scent of incense, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
As we wandered through the statues, our eldest tried to find a Lohan that resembled each of us—leading to lots of laughter and fun comparisons!
Before leaving, we thanked Mr. Ales Sandro for his wonderful guidance. He even shared a few tips on other hidden gems in Bintan, making us even more excited to explore the island further.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
✔ Dress modestly out of respect for the temple.
✔ Bring a camera to capture the fascinating sculptures.
✔ Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a fair amount of walking.
✔ Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
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