Darwin City's Oriental Influence: Chinese Museum And Temple

Due to Darwin's unique location, this city is the ultimate gateway to Southeast Asia. The influx of migrating Asians contributed to this city's symphony of culture set against a lush tropical background. One such culture that is evident in the area's cuisine and tourist spots is the Chinese. Because labor was needed in order to cater to the growing needs of Darwin's booming goldmining industry during the eighteenth century, Chinese workers were transported, triggering the growth of the Chinese people's economic influence. As the years passed and despite the damage inflicted by the Second World War on the Chinese establishments, they were able to resurrect their community. As of today, Darwin houses a Chinese Temple, also known as Chung Wah Temple or Darwin's Temple.

After the Second World War, another tragedy struck the Chinese community and completely destroyed the original temple. However, Cyclone Tracy's effects on this oriental community triggered the Chinese-Australians to raise funds so as to rebuilt the temple. This new temple is now a place of worship for a number of Confucians, Taoists and Buddhists residing in Darwin city.

The Museum

Beside this temple is a Chinese museum that houses artifacts and photos that serve as reminders of the difficult but important struggles the Chinese immigrants had to face. Exhibits showcasing the way of life of early Chinese immigrants are also included, along with illustrations and displays depicting the early version of NT's Chinatown before the bombings. As a site where visitors can see a glimpse of NT's Chinese history, family trees of the members of the community are also displayed.

The Chinese Museum and Temple located at Darwin City is maintained by the Chung Wah Society. This is a non-government organization that aims to preserve the Chinese culture, traditions and history through an array of photographs, displays and panoramas/models of the early community.

Conveniently located at the center of NT's capital, the museum and the temple are both popular tourist destinations among locals and tourists. These establishments also serve as living reminders of the significant contributions the resilient and resourceful Chinese people have made to the colorful and rich culture, overall development and economic prosperity of Darwin.

The site where these establishments were established is also where the Chinese people celebrate important gatherings and festivals such as the Moon Festival and New Year. Cultural landmarks situated along Woods street, these historic establishments are easily accessed within the boundaries of the region's capital.

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