Kanteibyo

Kanteibyo, or the Kuan Ti Miao Temple, has been the spiritual heart of Chinatown ever since it was built in 1887. It is dedicated to Kuan Yu, a mythical hero from the legendary "Tale of Three Kingdoms." During the Song Dynasty Kuan Yu was officially recognized as the "God of War." The Kuan Ti Miao Temple burned down three times. Somewhat miraculously the three statues inside survived each time. Rebuilt in the late 1980s, the Kuan Ti Miao Temple is the starting point for New Year parades, and is the temple where local Chinese pray for prosperity and the health and happiness of their families.