Melaka Things to Do Tips by chatterley

Old Chinese Tombs at Bukit Cina

Just beside the memorial (mentioned in my tip above), there are many ancient (perhaps centuries old) Chinese tombs. Some of these tombs are so old that you can hardly see the names and words. Traditional Chinese tombs are shaped like a dome, like an "omega" sign. The reason for adopting this shape is due to the old Chinese belief that when a person dies, he must return from where he came from. Yep, the omega-shape resembles an inverted womb, so the tombs signify returning to a woman's womb. These tombs are actually precious sources for doing historical research on the Chinese settlement in Malacca, and some researchers do come to study them.

Memorial of the Anti-Jap Chinese Patriots

Our coach passed by this monument, and according to our guide, this was erected in memory of those Chinese locals who died to protect their home against the Japanese in WWII. Malacca, an important town due to its strategic location, was colonized by the Portugese, and then the Dutch. During WWII, Malaysia fell to the Japanese, and the British quickly seized Malacca from the Dutch in an attempt to thwart the Japanese from taking over this town. Many locals were killed in their battles against the Japanese.

Cyclo Trishaw Drivers Review

Singapore has got a fleet of these trishaws too, ferrying tourists around for a hefty price; but those in Malacca are so much more colourful and cute! Adorned with plenty of flowers and flags, these trishaws seem popular with the Caucasian tourists. I have no idea how much a ride would cost though.

Dragon Carving on the Wall of the temple Temple's Review

In this photo, you can see a wood carving of a dragon on the wall of this temple. The worksmanship was fine and elaborate, and the dragon is painted with many colours. According to Chinese legends, dragons are creatures that will bring rain (which is especially important to the cultivation of crops, and China used to be an agriculture society) and therefore prosperity to the people.

Address: Jalong Street

Directions: Street of the temples

Oldest Temple in Malaysia Temple's Review

This temple is believed to be the oldest in the country, built in the 1600s. It is a Taoist temple, and the Goddess of Mercy is being worshipped here. Although it is quite small, this temple has got some beautiful and intricate carvings. The main colour scheme is brownish red (as with most Chinese temples), plus gold painting on the carved walls.

Address: Jalong Street

Directions: Street of the temples