How to Pray to Yue Lao 月老 at Yueh Hai Ching Temple
In my previous post, I shared how Yue Lao (月老) matched me with my now-husband just 2 days after I visited the temple. Coincidence? Fate? I'll let you decide.
Some of you asked how I prayed, so here's exactly what I did. While there's no "guaranteed" formula for finding love, these are the tips & steps I did for your reference!
1️⃣ Write Your Dream Partner Checklist
Before visiting the temple, spend some quiet time writing down the qualities you're looking for in a future husband or boyfriend.
This isn't about creating an impossible checklist—it's about gaining clarity on what truly matters to you in a life partner.
My analogy is that the list gives Yue Lao a clearer idea of the kind of person you're hoping to meet, so he can weave that invisible red string to the right soulmate.
2️⃣ Prepare a Red Packet (Ang Bao)
The temple provides empty red packets, so all you need is some cash to place inside as an offering. I personally offered $10.
Funny story... I completely forgot to bring cash! There wasn't an ATM nearby, so I shamelessly asked another fellow single if she had extra cash and paid her back via PayNow. Thankfully, she was super kind!
3️⃣ Go Early (Trust Me!)
If you're a little shy like me, I highly recommend going early.
I visited around 10am on a weekend, and there were already about five singles quietly queuing to pray to Yue Lao.
Let's just say... it was a little awkward.
4️⃣ What to do at the Temple
When you enter the temple, collect incense and pay your respects to the main deities first. If you're unsure of the proper prayer sequence, simply ask the temple caretaker—they're very friendly and happy to help.
After praying to the main deities, approach the care taker & whisper to him you would like to pray to Yue Lao.
He will guide you through the entire prayer process, including where to place your red packet offering & red string. The whole process take less than 5 minutes.
5️⃣ Return to Give Thanks
If Yue Lao blesses you with your soulmate, don't forget to return to offer your gratitude.
I went back the next day after becoming Mrs. and brought my husband along.
When I told the caretaker that Yue Lao had answered my prayers and that we had just gotten married the day before, his face lit up with the biggest smile. He was brimming with pride & genuinely look very happy for us.
It only feels right to start our marriage life with the blessing of Yue Lao, our matchmaker.
6️⃣ More Than Just a Love Temple
Even if you're not visiting to pray for love, Yueh Hai Ching Temple is worth exploring.
The temple is beautifully preserved, with stunning intricate carvings and traditional architecture that showcase its rich history. I spent nearly 30 minutes admiring all the carving details after my prayers.
There are also plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, making it a lovely place to spend the rest of your day.
Whether you're single, dating, or simply curious about the tradition, I hope this guide helps.
May Yue Lao weave your red string to the right person at the right time.
📍 Yueh Hai Ching Temple
30B Phillip Street, Singapore 048696
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
#dating #cmb #date #MyPOV #coffeemeetsbagel /Yueh Hai Ching Temple
Visiting Yueh Hai Ching Temple to pray to Yue Lao is a unique and heartfelt experience that goes beyond just following rituals—it’s about establishing your intentions and connecting with something meaningful. From my own experience and observing others, I found that approaching the temple with sincerity and an open heart truly enhances the experience. Before visiting, I reflected deeply on what I wanted in a partner without making the list unrealistic—this clarity helped focus my prayers. Bringing a red packet (Ang Bao) is an important symbolic offering; it shows respect and gratitude. The temple provides packets if you forget, but having cash ready is ideal. I’ve noticed that many visitors prefer going early in the morning to avoid the crowd and have a quiet moment to pray without distraction. At the temple, the caretaker’s guidance is invaluable—don’t hesitate to ask questions or clarify the steps. They are welcoming and knowledgeable and will help you place your offerings correctly. Lighting the incense and paying respects to the main deities first is traditional and sets a respectful tone. After completing the prayer, spending time admiring the intricate architecture and carvings of Yueh Hai Ching Temple enriches the visit; it reflects centuries of culture and devotion. Nearby cafes provide cozy spots to reflect on your experience or simply enjoy a peaceful day out. If your prayers to Yue Lao are answered, returning to the temple to give thanks is a beautiful way to close the circle. It strengthens your connection and shows appreciation for the blessings received. Whether you are single, dating, or just curious about the tradition, this practice provides a meaningful way to engage with cultural heritage and your own aspirations for love and happiness.
