Sri Mariamman Temple, Johor Baharu

Sandwiched between the traffic-thronged Jalan Wong Ah Fook and Kota Raya Plaza shopping complex, the colorful facades of this historic temple blend surprisingly well with the hustle and bustle all around. In the style of Hindu temples, figures from the pantheon are stationed strategically throughout the premises—the gatekeepers on horseback guarding the entrance and the mystical characters lining the pyramidal rooftop. The crowds pour in on major Hindu festivals, while dozens of temporary flower peddlers line the pavements outside, contributing to an endearing visual composition that downtown Johor Bahru has witnessed for decades.