THE CITY YAOWARAT
Yaowarat: Where to go?
What should I do?
Yaowarat, or "Bangkok's Chinatown," is one of the most vibrant tourist districts in Thailand. It blends ancient Chinese culture with modern lifestyles, offering famous shopping destinations and delicious cuisine that is renowned both day and night. We will take you to explore every corner of Yaowarat, from must-visit attractions to unforgettable restaurants and activities!
Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha
The Golden Buddha Wonders of Yaowarat
Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, commonly known as the "Temple of the Golden Buddha", is one of Thailand's most historically and spiritually significant temples for both Thai and Chinese Buddhists. Located in the heart of Yaowarat along Mitthaphap Thai-China Road (near MRT Wat Traimit Station), this temple is not only a spiritual hub but also a remarkable cultural attraction, housing the "Phra Buddha Maha Suwanna Patimakorn"—the world's largest solid gold Buddha statue.
Visitor Information
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Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (Museum closes at 4:30 PM)
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Admission Fees:
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Temple: Free entry
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Museum:
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Thai adults: 100 THB
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Thai children/students: 50 THB
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Foreign visitors: 200 THB
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How to Get There:
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MRT: Get off at Wat Traimit Station (Exit 1)
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Chao Phraya Express Boat: Stop at Wat Traimit Pier
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Bus Routes: Nos. 1, 4, 7, 25, 29, 53
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This sacred site blends religious devotion, history, and artistry, making it a must-visit destination in Bangkok! Would you like additional details on the golden Buddha’s history or nearby attractions?
Street Art, Talat Noi
Explore street art in the historic district
Talat Noi isn’t just about food and historic architecture—it’s also an open-air "Street Art Gallery," perfectly blending the classic charm of an old Chinese community with contemporary art. The area around Soi Rong Kueak Shrine (Soi Charoen Krung 22) has become a top photo spot for tourists and photographers alike.
Visitor Information
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Best time to visit:
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Morning (8:00–10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat.
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How to get there:
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MRT: Get off at Hua Lamphong Station, then take a taxi or walk (~15 mins).
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Chao Phraya Express Boat: Stop at Si Phraya Pier.
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Bus: Routes 1, 75, 93, or 12.
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The Commemorative Arch for the 6th Cycle Celebration (Odeon Circle)
The Sacred Twin Gates of Yaowarat
The Celebratory Arch of His Majesty's 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary, also known as the "Thai-Chinese Cultural Gate" at Odeon Circle, is more than just a popular photo landmark in Yaowarat. It stands as a symbol of loyalty and the deep-rooted Thai-Chinese relationship, infused with Feng Shui principles and profound auspicious meanings.
Visitor Information
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Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (recommended to visit in the morning or evening to avoid crowds)
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Transportation:
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MRT: Exit at Wat Mangkorn Station
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Bus: Lines 1, 4, 25, 53, 310
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Nearby Attractions:
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Wat Traimit (Golden Buddha Temple)
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Trok Silom (Street Art Alley)
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Chinatown Market (Chalermburi) – Food & Souvenirs Hub
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The Guan Yin Shrine (Tian Fa Foundation)
Yaowarat’s Beloved Landmark of Devotion for Almost 100 Years
Guan Yin Shrine (Tian Fa Foundation) is one of the most sacred and oldest shrines in Yaowarat. Located on Charoen Krung Road near Odeon Circle, this shrine is not only a revered spiritual site for Thai-Chinese devotees but also a popular destination for both local and international tourists seeking blessings—especially for health and healing.
Founded in 1923 by a group of Chinese immigrant merchants, the shrine initially started as a small place of worship. However, due to its renowned sanctity and miraculous reputation, it underwent multiple renovations and expansions, eventually becoming the grand shrine we see today.
Visitor Information
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Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
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Transportation:
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MRT: Get off at Wat Mangkon Station, then walk about 5 minutes
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Chao Phraya Express Boat: Disembark at Si Phraya Pier
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Bus Routes: No. 1, 4, 7, 25, 53
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Facilities:
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Shops selling offerings and souvenirs
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Clean restrooms
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Limited parking (public transport recommended)
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Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Leng Noei Yi Temple)
The Heart of Faith and Feng Shui in Yaowarat
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (commonly known among Thai-Chinese as "Leng Nei Yi") is one of Thailand's most significant Mahayana Buddhist temples. Renowned for its authentic Chinese architecture, it serves as a major spiritual hub for blessings related to prosperity, misfortune alleviation, and fortune enhancement – especially during Chinese New Year when devotees flock here in great numbers for special ceremonies.
Built in 1871 (during King Rama V's reign) by Teochew Chinese immigrants, the temple was granted royal status in 1876 and underwent a major restoration in 1961. Its architectural style closely resembles that of traditional temples in China's Guangdong province.
Visitor Information
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Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
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Best Times to Visit:
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Early Morning (6:00–8:00 AM) – Cooler temperatures, peaceful atmosphere
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Chinese New Year Period – Special ceremonies & vibrant festivities
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Transportation:
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MRT: Wat Mangkon Station (Exit 1)
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Chao Phraya Express Boat: Tha Wat Mangkon Pier
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Bus Routes: No. 1, 4, 7, 25, 53
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Wat Kanmatuyaram
A Small Temple of History and Faith in Yaowarat
Tucked away in Bangkok's bustling Yaowarat district, Wat Kanmatuyaram is a small but historically rich community temple that holds fascinating stories within its walls. Built in 1864 during the reign of King Rama IV, this hidden gem was founded by Lady Kleeb Sakornwasee, daughter of the famed brothel owner Yai Faeng (who also built Wat Kanikaphon).
The temple originated from Lady Kleeb's devotion—she donated her flower garden to establish this sacred space. King Rama IV later bestowed its name, "Wat Kanmatuyaram", meaning "The temple built by the mother of Mr. Kan."
Visitor Information
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Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Suggested Activities:
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Pay respects to Buddha images
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Refill ceremonial oil lamps
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Join meditation/prayer sessions
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Admire the temple’s unique artwork
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Leng Buai Ia Shrine
The Sacred Shrine of Yaowarat
One of Bangkok's oldest Teochew Chinese shrines nestled in the heart of Yaowarat, Leng Buai Ia Shrine boasts a remarkable history spanning over 300 years, dating back to the mid-Ayutthaya period. This sacred site remains a focal point of devotion for Thai-Chinese communities and visitors seeking blessings—particularly for prosperity in business and auspicious fortune.
Visitor Information
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Location: Soi Yaowarat 6 (Trok Itsaraphap) or Soi Charoen Krung 16
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Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Recommended Activities:
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Pay respects to the Chinese deities
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Admire intricate ancient Chinese architecture
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Explore authentic Teochew food stalls in the surrounding community
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The Gold Museum, Heng Seng Tong Gold Shop.
A center of beauty and Thailand's golden history.
If you are someone who admires the beauty of gold and wants to learn about the history of gold craftsmanship in Thailand, "The Gold Museum, Heng Tai Seng Gold Shop" is a must-visit destination! This place is not only home to renowned gold jewelry but also a fascinating museum that tells the story of Thai gold through the ages.
Located inside Heng Tai Seng Gold Shop, one of Thailand’s oldest and most prestigious gold shops, this museum was established to preserve and share knowledge about Thai gold—from traditional production methods to the evolution of gold jewelry from past to present.
Visitor Information
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Location: Inside Heng Tai Seng Gold Shop (main branch), typically near historic commercial areas like Yaowarat.
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Opening Hours: Advance checking recommended, as hours may vary.
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Admission Fee: Some sections may be free or require a small fee.
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Recommended For: History enthusiasts, goldsmiths, and art lovers.
Wat Bamroen Chinaprot (Yong Hok Yi Temple)
Sacred sites and cultural attractions in Bangkok
If you are looking for a beautiful and serene cultural and religious attraction in Bangkok, "Wat Bamphen Chinprajet" or "Yong Hok Yi Temple" is another must-visit destination. This temple is a spiritual hub for Thai-Chinese devotees and followers of Mahayana Buddhism, featuring exquisite Chinese architecture and a sacred atmosphere.
Wat Bamphen Chinprajet (Yong Hok Yi Temple) was established in 1871 by Teochew Chinese immigrants as a place for Taoist and Mahayana Buddhist rituals. The temple enshrines several important deities, such as Guan Yin Bodhisattva and Guan Yu, who are deeply revered by many worshippers.
Visitor Information
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BTS Skytrain: Get off at Saphan Taksin Station, then take a taxi or bus.
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Bus: Routes 1, 35, 75
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Boat: Disembark at Rajawongse Pier, then walk about 10 minutes.
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Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/PQeW47d
Heng Jia Shrine (Sam Chin Temple) - Tai Si Huk Jow
A venerable and culturally significant Chinese shrine.
Inside the shrine enshrines the sacred statue of Jao Pho Heng Jia in the "Tai Sia Huk Jow" manifestation, depicting him as an enlightened arhat seated in meditation upon a lotus flower. This deity is exquisitely carved from ancient auspicious wood, meticulously lacquered and gilded, and is hundreds of years old. It holds the distinction of being the first of its kind enshrined in Thailand, originally housed at Wat Sam Chin for many years.
This shrine is a revered spiritual site where devotees gather to pay respects and seek blessings for prosperity, peace in life, and success in business and career.
Visitor Information
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Address: 66 Rama IV Road, Samphanthawong District, Bangkok
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Map Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oFs79vJZQAKGyNFm9
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Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM