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San Chao Hakka Phra Mae Guan Yin
Temples & Culture
Bangkok

San Chao Hakka Phra Mae Guan Yin

4.5(27 reviews)

Tucked along Phlap Phla Chai Road in one of Bangkok's oldest Chinese communities, San Chao Hakka Phra Mae Guan Yin is a traditional Hakka Chinese shrine dedicated to Guan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion. The shrine reflects the deep-rooted heritage of the Hakka diaspora in Bangkok, offering visitors a window into the religious and cultural traditions that have shaped this historic neighbourhood for generations. Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and devotional, with the ornate décor, incense smoke, and offerings characteristic of southern Chinese temple worship. Visitors can observe or participate in quiet prayer, take in the detailed altar arrangements, and appreciate the architectural details that distinguish Hakka shrine design from the more commonly seen Cantonese or Teochew temples found elsewhere in Bangkok's Chinatown district. The surrounding Pom Prap area adds further cultural context, with nearby streets lined with traditional shophouses and other places of worship. The shrine is open every day of the week from 08:00 to 17:00, making it straightforward to incorporate into a broader Chinatown itinerary. As with all Chinese shrines in Thailand, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and behave respectfully inside the worship space. Entry is free of charge, and the location is best explored on foot alongside the wider network of temples and heritage sites in the Pom Prap neighbourhood.

Experience hints

Hidden gem

Location Info

293 Phlap Phla Chai Rd, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-17:00
Tuesday08:00-17:00
Wednesday08:00-17:00
Thursday08:00-17:00
Friday08:00-17:00
Saturday08:00-17:00
Sunday08:00-17:00

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.

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Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – February

Avoid: April – May (peak heat)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)

Crowds

Very High

Peak: December & January

Getting there

Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.

Getting around

  • BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
  • MRT Metro (underground)
  • Airport Rail Link (ARL)
  • Chao Phraya Express Boat
  • Grab (ride-hailing app)
  • Metered taxis — always use the meter