Gong wu shrine

Name: Gong wu shrine
Address: 251 Soi Somdet Chao Phraya 3, Khwaeng Somdet Chao Phraya, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand, TH
Telephone: +66 2 439 6309
Rating: 4.8

4.8(1,173 reviews)

Believed to be the oldest Chinese shrine in Bangkok, Gong Wu Shrine — dedicated to Guan Yu, the revered deity of righteousness and protection — sits on the bank of the Chao Phraya River in the largely residential Khlong San district. Far removed from the well-trodden temple circuit, it offers an authentic encounter with Thai-Chinese spiritual tradition in a setting that remains rooted in everyday local life. Its riverside position also makes it visually striking, and visitors arriving by boat get a particularly memorable first impression of the shrine from the water. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. Local worshippers make daily offerings, and shrine staff are known for their willingness to guide visitors through the prayer process with patience and warmth. The traditional Chinese architecture, incense-filled air, and proximity to the river combine to create a genuinely peaceful urban retreat. A cafe nearby adds a convenient stop before or after a visit. Good to know: The shrine is open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm, with early morning visits offering the most serene experience as devotees begin their daily rituals. Arriving by river boat is both practical and atmospheric — the Chao Phraya Express stops nearby, and the shrine pairs well with a walk through the surrounding neighbourhood or a visit to the Sky Park, which offers a good elevated view of the shrine before approaching on foot. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is an active place of worship.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Gong wu shrine, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

Good place for rest and pray. This place makes me safe and calm. People around here are very nice and give you advice about how to pray and warmly welcome.

Utterly beautiful shrine sitting on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. I throughly recommend viewing the shrine from the Sky Park first as it looks super cute from a distance. From there walk across the Sky Park bridge and trust the Google maps directions, you will get there! There are flower garlands and incense sticks to buy if you wish and devotees and the staff who work in attendance in the shrine are friendly. Didn't seem to be any rules on taking pics or videos or removing shoes or ticket fees which I have encountered at other shrines or temples. This shrine provides a lot of picture opportunities due to being so pretty. It is possible to climb a few set of stairs to see a higher view of the river (please be careful!). Quiet around the 2/3pm mark and nice breeze makes it very calming. Doesn't seem very "touristy" probably because it takes a bit of effort to get to. Welcoming place due to the good design and lovely decoration and was able to meditate there. It is possible to sit down and get food and drink if required but not sure if there is a bathroom. In all this is a must visit place. Sit down and gaze at the shrine and beautiful river bend from Sky Park on the way back 👌

Guan Yu Shrine is the oldest Chinese shrine in Bangkok, steeped in history and cultural significance. Nestled by the river, it’s easily accessible by both boat and car—but for a truly immersive experience, I highly recommend arriving by boat to take in the scenic route along the Chao Phraya River. After your visit, continue your journey by hopping on a tuk tuk to explore the charming local neighborhood surrounding the shrine. It’s a perfect blend of heritage, local life, and authentic Bangkok charm.

Location Info

251 Soi Somdet Chao Phraya 3, Khwaeng Somdet Chao Phraya, Khet Khlong San, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand

Get directions

+66 2 439 6309 www.facebook.com/%E0%B8%A8%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A5%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%88%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%B9-%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%A1%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%94%E0%B9%87%E0%B8%88%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%88%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%B2-%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%99-1035574589805110/

Opening Hours

Monday07:30-17:30

Tuesday07:30-17:30

Wednesday07:30-17:30

Thursday07:30-17:30

Friday07:30-17:30

Saturday07:30-17:30

Sunday07:30-17:30

Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.