‘Guardians of Legacy’ art installation at Kwai Chai Hong
When Chinese New Year rolls around, Malaysians waste no time hopping between malls, kampungs, and festive hotspots to check out various eye-catching decorations that the year has to offer.
This festive season, Kwai Chai Hong once again transports visitors into a world rooted in heritage and storytelling, with its annual Chinese New Year installation, named the Guardians of Legacy (十二福星).
Running from now until 8th March 2026, the installation is open daily from 9am to midnight, so visitors have ample time to soak in the festive atmosphere, whether on a daytime stroll or a late-night photo walk.
What you can expect at Kwai Chai Hong’s Guardians of Legacy
As you step into the alleyway of Kwai Chai Hong, your eyes are immediately drawn upwards to rows of lanterns hanging above, gently swaying with the breeze, and each adorned with illustrations of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. This glowing stretch invites visitors to spot their own zodiac among the twelve.
By day, the lanterns catch the sunlight with their vibrant colours, and by night, they glow in a soft yellow hue that adds a warm, homey charm to the alley.
Once you cross the iconic Red Bridge, you’ll be greeted by the centrepiece of the entire installation: as the zodiac animal for 2026 and the guardian of the art installation, the Horse stands grand at over 7 feet tall.
What makes the entire installation especially meaningful is the symbolism displayed and explained for each zodiac figure. Informative posters are placed beside each animal, explaining the motifs and details visible on it. Visitors are encouraged to pause, read, and appreciate the craftsmanship and thought behind each piece.
Scattered throughout the alleyway, the zodiac animals are illuminated against the historic walls of Kwai Chai Hong, each brought to life through distinct colours and auspicious meanings.
Take a closer look, and you’ll notice that every animal incorporates six hidden elements, such as this bird on the monkey’s tail, signifying an auspicious tail, rewarding observant visitors who take the time to explore beyond the surface.
If you’re wondering where the Dog and Pig figures are, make your way up the stairs, decorated with ribbons and an illustrated banner, and to the second floor, where the final two zodiac guardians are placed.
As with all art installations at Kwai Chai Hong, entry is free. Do come prepared with a portable fan or umbrella, especially if you are visiting during the day, as the open-air alleyways can get warm.
Celebrate Chinese New Year with lanterns & zodiac animals at Kwai Chai Hong
Whether you’re stopping by after brunch in Petaling Street or planning an evening walk through the city, Guardians of Legacy is a must-visit festive installation this Chinese New Year. Blending cultural symbolism, craftsmanship and Kwai Chai Hong’s nostalgic charm, it offers a meaningful way to celebrate the season while soaking in Kuala Lumpur’s heritage-filled alleyways.
Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia
Photography by Ming-Xuan.