The Chinese Joss House of Bendigo is still used as a house of prayer today and is the only one of its kind still surviving in regional Victoria. The Chinese people have a proud history since gold was first discovered in 1851.
Built of timber and local hand made bricks, it is painted red - the traditional Chinese colour denoting strength and vitality. The main temple is dedicated to Guan-Di, the god of war and prosperity. The Chinese saw Guan-Di as a wise judge, guide, protector and provider of wealth and prosperity; factors needed for Chinese worshipers in this strange land.
It is now a National Trust property and is open to the public Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 11.00am to 4.00pm. Bendigo is 149 km norht of Melbourne. The Joss House is a short drive north west of Lake Weeroona.
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