Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, Sandakan

I think this is the most beautiful temple in Sandakan, and perfectly located on top of the hill facing the sea. There are quite a few Chinese Temples around Sandakan but this one stands out. The Buddhist temple is open to all, and you need to remove your shoes a d slippers before entering the main hall. Please be respectful and follow the rules whenever you visit a religious place. You are allowed to take photos and video. The view from the front of the time allows you to see the Sandakan bay area. Toilets are located outside. For photography, this temple is best visited in the morning, especially on a nice and clear day. I've shared some photos here, taken with my smartphone.

Tranquil and peaceful. A great place to just escape too and chill. Perched high over Sandakan we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Suggest using Waze or Google Maps to navigate here as it is not well signposted.

Super steep way up but it's well worth it. Has fascinating view of the sea. Used to be accessible to the route downwards leading to the wooden gazebo. But they don't maintain it anymore.

Up the hill with a good view of the sea. We couldn't get inside the temple as it was closed.

Really surprised how nice this temple was. Comparable to big mainland temples, much better than anything I've seen elsewhere in Borneo. Bit difficult to walk to but the bus is cheap and easy. Can't walk straight there even though Google maps might make it look that way, you have to kind of go around and approach from the far side. It's a fun hike but farther than it seems. Views are incredible.