Symbolized Decoration
"Chinese architecture prefers to use the symbolized decoration on the surface of the building"("External Architectural Features"). The dragon and phoenix were considered celestial figures and were commonly used by Chinese architects. The Chinese dragon represents the concept of yang (male) while the phoenix represents yin (female). They were used as decorative signs on the buildings or temples to represent that the emperor as real dragon and son of heaven ("Chinese Dragon & Phoenix").
For example, the Kwan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) temple was constructed in the early 1800s by Chinese migrants. The building follows classic Chinese architecture and has dragon statues lining the roof ridges. These ceramic sculptures of the dragons are considered the guardians of the temple ("Penang Kwan Yin Temple").