Chinese Clan Secrets and History Guided Walking Tour in Penang
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Follow your professional guide through Georgetown as you uncover over 200 years of Chinese clan secrets, legendary power struggles, and the 1867 Penang Riots. Admire Georgetown’s historical architecture and landmarks, each a testament to Penang’s unique heritage and vibrant past.
- Tour Georgetown on a guided history journey
- Listen to stories from 200 years of Chinese clan history
- Experience a unique cultural and historical adventure
- Ideal for travelers seeking a deep dive into Penang’s heritage
Available options
Professional Tour Guide
What's included
Listen to 200 years of history of Penang's Chinese community and clans
3-hour Penang Riots & Chinese Clan Secrets Georgetown Tour
Professional tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start on the Temple of the Goddess of Mercy, a spiritual haven built by early Chinese settlers. This stop reflects the resilience and unity of Penang’s Chinese community, with stories of cultural harmony and cooperation.
2
Penang Chinese Town Hall, established around 1881, is a historic organization founded by the Chinese merchant class in Penang to safeguard their community interests and welfare. It originated from the need to manage secular affairs separately from spiritual ones, which were traditionally overseen by the Kong Hock Keong Temple.
3
It reflects Penang’s multicultural heritage with a mix of Chinese shrines, Hindu temples, mosques, and colonial-era buildings. Historically, it was an enclave for working-class Indians and is now a bustling area known for its Indian shops selling clothing, jewelry, and food.
4
Han Jiang Ancestral Temple in George Town, Penang, is a historic Teochew clan temple originally completed in 1870 and expanded in 1890. It serves as the community temple of the Penang Teochew Association and is dedicated to the Taoist God of the North, the Teochew patron deity.
5
Discover Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple and the 1867 Penang Riots, where secret societies clashed for power. This stop reveals the hidden dynamics of Georgetown’s Chinese community and the influence of Chinese clans and societies.
6
Built in 1860 by Syed Mohammad Alatas, an Achenese-descended Malay elite and leader of the Red Flag secret society, the mansion blends Straits Eclectic architectural styles infused with Islamic motifs such as the star-and‑crescent pediment.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Our tour guide will meet you at the front of the temple.
About Penang Island
Penang Island, known as the 'Pearl of the Orient,' is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its UNESCO-listed George Town, stunning beaches, and diverse cuisine, it offers a unique Southeast Asian experience.
Top Attractions
George Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture, street art, and rich cultural heritage.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees
Penang Hill
A popular hill station offering panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
MYR 12 (Funicular ride)
Kek Lok Si Temple
One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Malaysia, known for its stunning architecture and the 30.2-meter tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin.
Religious/Cultural
2-3 hours
Free, donations welcome
Batu Ferringhi Beach
A popular beach known for its white sand, water sports, and vibrant night market.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free, water sports and activities may have fees
Penang National Park
A protected area with diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and Monkey Beach.
Nature/Adventure
Half day or full day
MYR 5 (entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Char Kway Teow
Stir-fried rice cake strips with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and chili.
Dinner
Contains seafood, eggs, and soy. Can be made vegetarian.
Nasi Kandar
A meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, often including meat, fish, and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and fish. Vegetarian options available.
Roti Canai
A flaky, layered flatbread served with curry, often made from wheat flour, water, and ghee.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Contains wheat and ghee. Vegetarian options available.
Penang Laksa
A spicy noodle soup made with rice noodles, prawns, fish cakes, and a tangy tamarind-based broth.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains seafood and fish. Vegetarian options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking at Penang Hill
Water sports at Batu Ferringhi Beach
Exploring Penang National Park
Beach relaxation at Batu Ferringhi
Spa treatments
Tea plantation tours in Cameron Highlands
Exploring George Town's street art
Visiting temples and museums
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the dry season with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
24-32°C
75-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malay
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Hokkien, Mandarin, Cantonese), Tamil
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Penang is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Penang International Airport • 15 km from George Town
By bus
Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with a network of buses covering most parts of the island. Easy to use with a single ticket system.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
George Town
Batu Ferringhi
Chulia Street
Gurney Drive
Day trips
Butterworth
4 km from George Town • Half day
A town on the mainland opposite Penang Island, known for its historic buildings, ferry services, and the famous Kek Lok Si Temple.
Langkawi
60 km from Penang • Full day or overnight
A tropical island known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and lush landscapes.
Cameron Highlands
200 km from Penang • Full day or overnight
A highland region known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and lush landscapes.
Festivals
George Town Festival • Late July to early August
Chinese New Year • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies by lunar calendar (usually May or June)
Pro tips
- Explore George Town's street art on foot for a unique and immersive experience
- Try local street food at hawker centers for an authentic and affordable culinary adventure
- Visit Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures
- Experience the vibrant night market at Batu Ferringhi for shopping, street food, and entertainment
- Take a ferry to Butterworth for a day trip to explore the mainland and its attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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