Hiang Thian Siang Tie Temple

Philosophy of Design and Classic Oriental Architectural Style

The architecture of Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie strongly adopts the traditional South Chinese style, particularly influenced by Hokkien and Teochew architectural styles. The main characteristic that immediately captures attention is the use of vibrant red and gold colors dominating the entire building facade. In Chinese cosmology, red symbolizes happiness, good fortune, and the warding off of negative energy, while gold symbolizes the glory and majesty of the creator.

The building's design principles follow strict rules of symmetry, a concept in Chinese architecture that symbolizes the balance of the universe (Yin and Yang). The main gate is designed with a magnificent Paifang typology, featuring intricate and precise relief carvings. Every inch of the walls and pillars is not left plain; they are filled with visual narratives that tell legends of deities and moral teachings.

Historical Context and Construction Narrative

The construction of Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie in Kubu Raya is inseparable from the large-scale migration of the Chinese ethnic group to the Kalimantan mainland centuries ago. This temple is dedicated to the deity Hiang Thian Siang Tie (Xuan Tian Shang Di), who is known in local belief as the God of the North Heaven, ruling over the water element and possessing the power to neutralize disasters.

Although it has undergone several renovations and expansions, the current building structure is the result of the collective dedication of the local community. Its construction involved skilled craftsmen brought in specifically to ensure the detail of ornaments, such as dragon and phoenix carvings, possessed an authentic quality comparable to major temples in mainland China. The construction process combines modern materials with traditional woodworking techniques for the interior ceiling.

Structural Innovations and Unique Visual Elements

One of the most prominent architectural elements of Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie is its roof design, which uses a multi-tiered roof technique. The sharp upward curve of the roof edges, known as the "Swallow's Tail" (Yanwei) style, functions not only aesthetically but also functionally to efficiently channel the heavy tropical rainwater in West Kalimantan.

Above the roof ridge, there are a pair of facing dragon statues vying for a fire pearl. These dragons are crafted using the Jiannian technique, which is the art of cutting colored ceramic or glass into small pieces and then assembling them into a three-dimensional mosaic. This technique provides a dynamic shimmering effect when exposed to sunlight, creating the impression that the dragons are moving among the clouds.

The temple's main pillars are an interesting structural innovation. Instead of merely serving as supports for the roof's load, these cylindrical concrete pillars are wrapped with dragon carvings that coil from bottom to top. The detail of the dragon scales and facial expressions are made with a high degree of precision, giving a majestic and authoritative impression to anyone entering the main hall area.

Cultural Significance and Social Integration

Socially, Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie functions as a "third space" for the Kubu Raya community. Although it is a specific place of worship, its open and grand architecture makes it an inclusive religious tourism destination. This building is a tangible testament to how architecture can serve as a bridge for intercultural communication.

During major celebrations like Lunar New Year or Cap Go Meh, this temple transforms into a cultural gravity center. The spacious outdoor area (plaza) allows for large-scale social interaction, from Barongsai performances to charity bazaars. The temple's location, close to settlements and the river, also reflects the ideal Feng Shui concept, where buildings "lean on mountains" (symbolized by the sturdy building structure) and "face the water."

Spatial and Interior Experience

Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted with an atmosphere that contrasts with the hustle and bustle outside. Natural lighting is arranged in such a way through traditional skylight openings, allowing incense smoke to rise vertically, creating a dramatic "light staircase" effect.

The temple floors generally use high-quality natural stone or ceramic materials with geometric patterns that direct the gaze towards the main altar. The altar of Hiang Thian Siang Tie itself is the architectural focal point within the room. This altar is made of finely carved teak wood and coated with gold leaf, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

Preservation and Future of Kubu Raya's Icon

As an iconic building in West Kalimantan, the maintenance of Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie is carried out periodically to preserve its structural integrity from the humid tropical climate. The use of special weather-resistant paint and regular cleaning of ceramic ornaments are key to maintaining the grandeur of this building.

Currently, Vihara Hiang Thian Siang Tie is not only seen as an asset for a specific religious community but has been recognized as an architectural heritage that enriches the cultural treasury of Kubu Raya Regency. For architects and history enthusiasts, this building is a living laboratory to study how traditional Chinese aesthetics can adapt and thrive in Kalimantan, creating a unique and irreplaceable visual identity. Visitors will experience both spiritual and aesthetic journeys, marveling at how every corner of the building tells a story of harmony, prayer, and human hope embodied in its magnificent physical form.