Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Horoverse X MAEN watch
    Horoverse x MAEN: Limited Edition Neon Cities Timepiece Celebrates Hong Kong and Macau’s Iconic Glow
    Jewelry & Watches
    The Macallan 200 Year Whisky Exhibition
    Step into History: The Macallan 200 Years Young Exhibition
    Events & Promotions
    Photo provided by Harry Potter_ The Exhibition_(4)
    A Spellbinding Journey into the Enchanting World of Harry Potter™: The Exhibition
    Events & Promotions
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    our bucket list of things to do if you’re visiting Macau on a Budget. The Venetian Macao canals
    Macau on a Budget: A One-Day Itinerary
    Macau
    Michelin Guide Macau 2024
    Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau 2024: Macau’s Culinary Triumphs
    Dining
    Minibar and Lounge Interior Yellow Neon Signs Macau Lifestyle
    Sing Along: Best Places for Karaoke in Macau
    Bars
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    Tap Seac Swimming Pool Wide View from Below Sunny Day Macau Lifestyle
    Best Public Pools in Macau
    Family
    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Moo Creamery Founders Portrait
    Moo Creamery: Freshly-Made Ice Creams Delivering Original Flavors in Macau
    Dining
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    Featured image: Chinese depiction of a woman from atlantic countries circa 18th century Source: Review of Culture
    Historic Women in Macau: Empowering Communities Across Time
    Culture
    Morpheus City of Dreams Macau Reasons to visit
    10 More Reasons to Visit Macau
    Culture
    st dominic church macau
    Top 10 Things to Do in Macau
    Culture
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    horoverse-shooting-start-from-0-4by3
    Horoverse Co-Founders on Revitalizing Watch Culture: A Deep Dive with Oliver Tong and Wallace Chan
    Jewelry & Watches
    Horoverse X MAEN watch
    Horoverse x MAEN: Limited Edition Neon Cities Timepiece Celebrates Hong Kong and Macau’s Iconic Glow
    Jewelry & Watches
    Wayuu Bag Macau
    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level
    Culture
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    our bucket list of things to do if you’re visiting Macau on a Budget. The Venetian Macao canals
    Macau on a Budget: A One-Day Itinerary
    Macau
    Isabel Bengzon surfing Siargao Macau Lifestyle
    Siargao Guide: Where to Eat, Sleep, Surf & Party
    Asia
    st dominic church macau
    Top 10 Things to Do in Macau
    Culture
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    Cartier and Women exhibition
    Cartier and Women: The World’s First Major Exhibition on the Role and Influence of Women in Cartier’s History
    Culture
    Grand Hyatt HK_French GourMay Staycation (3)
    French GourMay at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Offers a Bespoke Culinary Trip to France
    Dining
    The Upper House Salisterra Main Dining Room
    Salisterra Showcases Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine at The Upper House Hong Kong
    Dining
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Culture
by Raquel Dias

Kun Iam Temple: A Tale of Love and War

Kun Iam Temple Macau

The beautiful Kun Iam Temple (Kun Iam Tong) in Avenida do Coronel Mesquita is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 13th century and is dedicated to Kun Iam. This Taoist Goddess was also venerated amongst the Chinese Buddhists and came to represent a version of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Mercy. In Mahayana Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is a person who is able to reach Nirvana but delays doing so through compassion for suffering beings. The building we see today was erected in the 17th century, in 1627 and stands amidst the other equally beautiful and intriguing temples in Macau. To know more about these temples, click here.  

As tradition dictates on these occasions, the temple is divided into three pavilions, one dedicated to the three precious Buddhas, one to the Longevity Buddha, and the third to Kun Iam. The setting is idyllic with beautiful trees and gardens in perfect harmony. As most Bodhisattvas, Kun Iam is dressed as a princess, in real brocade silk, complete with a traditional headpiece that is changed every year. 

Not only is the temple quite relevant as a representation of Chinese Buddhist tradition, and a female Bodhisattva is always an interesting topic to discuss, the temple has gone to represent so much more than religion. The quiet quarters, with its heavy trees, the mystifying smoke of the burning incense, and the ever-present twittering of birds, were the stage for incredible stories and a few tales.  

buddha trees kun iam temple

Tales of Love

A long, long time ago, before history was written, two star-crossed lovers lived, not in “fair Verona” but right here in what was little fishermen village in the far East. Like Romeo and Juliette, the two heroes of this story were helplessly in love despite being from different social stances. 

A-Kam, a beautiful young girl with big eyes and hair as black and shiny as a crow’s wing was the daughter of a famous and venerated scholar. She was as elegant as a goddess and her smile sweet as the first drops of honey. Her father guarded her virtue as his most precious treasure and rarely had her out of his sight. 

As fortune often has other plans, on a sunny spring day, a young man entered the village. He was as handsome as he was poor but was a hard worker determined to make a better life for himself. He quickly finds work in A-Kam’s father’s lands, working day and night and seldom resting. Impressed by the boy’s hard work and long days under the harsh sun and humid weather, A-Kam started to bring him fresh water in the mornings, jasmine tea in the afternoon, and as much food as she could find.

It did not take long for the two of them to find solace in each other’s arms. She was taken by the young man’s persistence and kindness and he, by her beauty and dedication. When beautiful A-Kam first understood she was pregnant, the couple gained the courage to tell her father of their intention to marry. However, A-Kam’s father was furious at what he thought to be the ultimate betrayal. He refused to let his daughter marry a commoner with little knowledge while she, he explained, was brought up to become a princess. When he banished the young man from ever entering the village again, A-kam came up with a plan. 

They met at night in Kun Iam’s temple. In one of the inner patios, the lovers gave their last kiss and said their goodbyes. They had decided that, since there was no place for their love in this world, they might find comfort in the next. 

It is said that their bodies were never found. Instead, the next morning, two beautiful trees completely intertwined, were growing fast and steady. No one, not even A-Kam’s father was able to separate them. Visitors to the temple can still see the “Lovers Tree” as it has been named ever since. 

Kun Iam Temple Treaty Table

To Peace and Diplomacy 

The quiet grounds of the temple witnessed more than just long lost love tales. History was made here too. In 1845, a troubled time for China during the end of the Opium Wars, an important treaty was signed here. 

We don’t quite know why Macau was chosen as the place to sign the Treaty of Wanghia, but it is reasonable to think it was due to the city’s easier reach to foreigners. This diplomatic agreement between China and the United States, officially named Treaty of Peace, Amity, and Commerce, with a tariff of duties, is considered by historians as unequal and unfair to China as the country was particularly weakened and under considerable international pressure. 

Kun Iam Temple Red Gate Detail

At a little table, you can still see today, three of the most powerful men in China and the U.S. were seated to ensure not all of the Canton (today known as Guangdong) trade fell into the hands of the British. The United States was represented by Caleb Cushing, a Massachusetts lawyer, there was also the physician and missionary, Peter Parker, serving as Cushing’s Chinese interpreter. The Qing Empire was represented by Keying, the Viceroy of Liangguang, who held responsibility for the provinces of Guangdong and Guangxi.


Opening hours: Daily, 7:00am–5.30pm

Kun Iam Temple 2 Avenida do Coronel Mesquita, Macau, www.macaotourism.gov.mo

 

Tags

  • Buddhist temples in Macau
  • Kun Iam Temple
  • Kun Iam Tong
  • Macau Temples
  • temples in macau

Related Posts

girl in macau transport
Local Knowledge

Getting Around in Macau

10-things-to-do-in-coloane-chapel-francis-xavier
Culture

Off the Beaten Path: 10 Things to Do in Coloane

Morpheus City of Dreams Macau Reasons to visit
Culture

10 More Reasons to Visit Macau

st dominic church macau
Culture

Top 10 Things to Do in Macau

Trending Posts

Dining, Local Eats

Where to Find the Best Portuguese Egg Tarts in Macau

Local Knowledge, Macau, Sightseeing, Travel

Getting Around in Macau

Hon Kee cafe in Coloane
Dining, Local Eats

Best Breakfast Spots in Macau to Eat Like a Local

pork chop bun in macau
Dining, Local Eats

Where to Find the Juiciest Pork Chop Bun in Macau

  • Editor's Picks

    woman holding phone and coffee Local Knowledge

    Macau Apps: The Best Apps You’ll Need in Macau

    When in Macau, consider these 5 must-have applications that will make your life or stay easier.

    girl in macau transport Local Knowledge

    Getting Around in Macau

    Macau is a small but immensely interesting place with plenty of things to see and do. With many modes of transport, getting around has never been simpler.

    ladies night macau Bars

    Where My Ladies At: The Best Ladies’ Night Offers in Macau

    From free-flow champagne to free Prosecco bottles, check our list of the best ladies’ night offers in Macau.

    Salvador Dali Alice in Wonderland Macau Lifestyle hidden artwork Macau Arts

    Art Masterpieces in Macau You Did Not Know Existed

    Some pieces of art are in the most prominent spots, but there are some artwork that remain hidden in Macau. Here’s where you can find them!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Wayuu Bag Macau Culture

    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

    Macau is a small city, but it sure has a lot of new businesses popping up. We rounded up a list of cool businesses to check out and support!

    start line photo Lifestyle

    Top Running Routes in Macau

    Make the effort to get up 30 minutes earlier from tomorrow onwards and check out any of these stunning running routes in Macau.

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    Flora Garden playground Family

    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau

    Macau is full of parks and leisure areas that feature some amazing play areas. Here’s a list of the best playgrounds in Macau for the tykes!

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    sound-of-century-vintage-sound-machines-museum Arts

    Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

    When art and history collections are inspected, it’s time to learn things that even locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums.

    Pataca currency Local Knowledge

    The Pataca Story: The Peculiar History of Macau’s Currency

    The Pataca is special as not many countries the size of Macau would have their currency. Read on to find out about the origins of the Pataca.

    Vintage Around Exterior Front View Macau Lifestyle Culture

    Where to Shop Vintage in Macau

    If you’re a fashionista obssessed with all things vintage, this selection of the best vintage shops in Macau is for you. Happy shopping!

    Negroni bar patua mgm cotai macau lifestyle Bars

    Where to Have an Unforgettable Negroni in Macau

    Check our list of the best bars in Macau that serve the Italian bitter-sweet cocktail, Negroni, from classic recipes to original twists!

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries Dining

    A Tour of Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

    Every tourist coming to Macau can make a fast conclusion that cookies and pastries here are held in high regard. Where do you start, and what do you eat? To get acquainted with a curious word of local sweets, check our guide to the Chinese pastries in Macau.

    63c4f00b-ca84-4eda-8f54-1fc5b633bee6_l Architecture

    Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

    Have you ever wondered about Tap Seac Square, its history, and what used to be there? Find out more about its history and right here!

    Camões Bust in Grotto Culture

    The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

    Portuguese poet Camões is well-known in Macau. But do you know why? We tell you some interesting facts about the author’s life!

    beijing memory li xiao feng mandarin oriental macau art Arts

    Art at Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Porcelain Dresses & Contemporary Glass Installations

    Read on to see how Mandarin Oriental, Macau, highlights its style and identity with art and design masterpieces by different artists.  

    Nam Ping Exterior Frontdoor Macau Lifestyle Dining

    Nam Ping: A Local Foodie Haven Nestled in Old Macau

    Set in Rua de Cinco de Outubro, Nam Ping is nestled in the city center, opened for more than 30 years, serving simple, mouthwatering dishes.

    Rooftop Macau Upstairs Terrace Dining

    Best Rooftops in Macau to Relax At

    Chilling on a rooftop with a cold drink is the best way to spend a day. Here’s a list of some of the hippest trending rooftops in Macau!

    Chou Kei Dining

    Local Eats: Where to Have Instant Noodles With Egg & Luncheon Meat in Macau

    Instant noodles taste much better topped with a fried egg and luncheon meat! Here are the best places in Macau to have this delicacy.

    banyan tree macau_Spa_Royal Treatment Room Lifestyle

    Macau’s Best Spas

    Macau is a wold-class destination and this extends to its spas as well. Check out our list of spas in Macau offering the best in relaxation.

    ferry hong kong macau Culture

    10 Useful Macau Ferry Tips

    Although you can take the bridge now, the one-hour ferry ride is a unique and easy way to get from Macau to Hong Kong. Here are 10 essential tips to make your Macau to Hong Kong ferry trip trouble-free.

    hac-sa-reservoir-park Macau

    Best Things to Do around Hac Sa Beach

    Hac Sa Beach on Coloane Island is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect place for a day outside the city!

    Lord-Stows-Garden-Cafe-Coloane Cafes

    Best Places to Eat in Coloane

    Coloane is where locals and tourists come to enjoy chill vibes and home-style dining. Here are the best places to eat in Coloane for your next foodie trip!

    Tap Seac Swimming Pool Wide View from Below Sunny Day Macau Lifestyle Family

    Best Public Pools in Macau

    Cool off or get your cardio in at the best public pools in Macau!

    Cheong Kei Noodles Owner with Blurred Noodles in Hand Macau Lifestyle Dining

    Cheong Kei Noodle Factory: A Local Family Business with Healthy Ambitions

    We learned the history of Cheong Kei Noodle Factory, the inspiration behind their products, and their vision for Cheong Kei’s future.

    AJ Hackett Macau Skywalk giveaway Macau Lifestyle Local Knowledge

    Everything You Need to Do in Macau at Least Once

    Take a dive into this article and find out what to do to spend your precious time in Macau and maximize it to enjoy the city at its fullest!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2025 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!