San Chao Kian An Keng
Come here for the carvings and the quiet, not for a big set-piece attraction. This is one of Bangkok's oldest Chinese shrines, put up by settlers who came with King Taksin when Thon Buri was the capital between 1767 and 1782, and it has always been tied to the river and the safety of the boatmen who worked it. Inside there's a revered Guan Yin statue and woodwork worth standing still for. It's been under renovation, though it stays open while the work goes on.
What makes the trip is the walk around it. The Kudi Chin neighbourhood is residential and slow, nothing like the temple circuit across the water, and the shrine pairs naturally with Wat Kanlayanamit next door. Late afternoon, when the heat drops and the bend in the river cools off, is my pick. It's still an active place of worship, so cover shoulders and knees and keep your voice down.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After San Chao Kian An Keng, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
A wonderful spot to stroll. Spend some time and appreciate the historic shrine, enter and say a prayer, and enjoy the serene feeling of the surrounding neighborhood. The area around this shrine has a rich history with plenty of things to explore, which makes for a great way to spend an afternoon with your friends. Take a walk around the water bend when the weather is cool!
One of the oldest temples in town, this site holds significant heritage and cultural value. Facing the river, it appears to have served as a place where the deity protected the safety of boatmen in ancient times. Flowers and incense are available for offerings, priced at 30 baht and 20 baht, respectively. However, the temple is not particularly accessible for individuals with disabilities or those using strollers, due to the presence of stairs and uneven flooring. Pro : Cultural value Historic Cons : Not wheel chair accessible
Kian An Keng Shrine: A Historic Gem by the Chao Phraya Kian An Keng Shrine, located near Wat Kanlayanamit, stands as a testament to Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry. Built over a century ago by Chinese immigrants, this shrine has maintained its original architectural essence, showcasing intricate art and unique carvings that remain well-preserved. Accessible by boat and foot, the shrine’s serene location by the river adds to its charm. Inside, visitors will find a revered statue of Guan Yin, where many come to pray for success and fortune. The shrine is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of historical significance for the local Chinese community. The interiors feature beautiful wooden carvings and murals, but note that photography is not allowed inside. For those seeking a peaceful, reflective visit steeped in tradition, Kian An Keng Shrine offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual heritage of Bangkok. If you visit, consider stopping by to admire the artistry and experience the sense of tranquility this historic shrine provides.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 397 reviews on Google.
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San Chao Kian An Keng: Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Chao Kian An Keng worth visiting?
San Chao Kian An Keng holds a 4.6★ rating from 397 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of San Chao Kian An Keng?
San Chao Kian An Keng is typically open 07:00-17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit San Chao Kian An Keng?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is San Chao Kian An Keng located?
San Chao Kian An Keng is at 230 Thanon Thetsaban Sai 1, Khwaeng Wat Kanlaya, Khet Thon Buri, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
230 Thanon Thetsaban Sai 1, Khwaeng Wat Kanlaya, Khet Thon Buri, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailandwww.facebook.com/KianUnKengShrine?mibextid=ZbWKwLVisitor 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
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
Where to stay near San Chao Kian An Keng
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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.
Nearby Places
Baan Kudichin Museum
A hidden gem in Thon Buri exploring Bangkok's Portuguese heritage, with a cafe and cultural exhibits.
Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan
Free entry, a turtle pond, and a white chedi you can climb, with barely a tour group in sight.
Phra Racha Wang Derm (Thonburi Palace)
A rare glimpse into pre-Bangkok history at the 18th-century palace of King Taksin in Thonburi.
Wat Arun Viewing Point
A riverside vantage point on Thanon Maha Rat offering striking views across the Chao Phraya to Wat Arun's iconic spires.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Doi Suthep Temple
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The Big Buddha, Phuket
A 45-metre marble Buddha on a hilltop, though the front is closed and you'll be viewing from behind.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Where to stay near San Chao Kian An Keng
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
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
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