Originally founded in 1870 at Lebuh Gereja, the Hainan Temple was relocated to the present building in 1895. Commonly known as "Thean Hou Kong" or "Temple of the Heavenly Queen", the temple is dedicated to "Mazu", the patron saint of seafarers.
Two interesting features that stand out from this original temple are the "Altar of Kwan Kong" which is raised over the inner portal and the stone pillars which are cut in Song Dynasty's style. In 1995, the temple was given a facelift, to a new highly ornamental facade during its centenary celebration.
The Thean Hou Kong Temple, worshipped by many Hainanese clans, is owned and managed by the Penang Hainan Association formerly known as "Kheng Chew Hooi Kuan".