San Chao Mae Thapthim Saphan Lueang

Name: San Chao Mae Thapthim Saphan Lueang
Address: 377 11 ซอย จุฬาลงกรณ์ 30 Khwaeng Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand, TH
Telephone: +66 62 875 5884
Rating: 4.9

4.9(379 reviews)

Nestled along Soi Chulalongkorn 30 in the Wang Mai area of Pathum Wan, this revered Thai-Chinese shrine has stood for over 150 years and remains an active place of worship dedicated to the Goddess Tubtim — a sea goddess particularly associated with guidance in work and life matters. Built in the Teochew architectural style, the shrine carries genuine devotional energy and represents a meaningful thread of Chinese diasporic heritage within central Bangkok. Its location amid rising high-rise development makes it a quietly poignant cultural survivor worth seeking out. Visitors can expect a calm, intimate atmosphere quite different from Bangkok's larger temple complexes. Staff are present throughout the shrine to guide worshippers through each prayer station, and offerings including flowers and incense can be purchased on-site at modest prices, with cashless payment accepted. The shrine welcomes both devoted worshippers and curious visitors, making it approachable for those unfamiliar with Thai-Chinese folk religious practices. The shrine is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with mornings generally offering a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere. The nearest public transport is MRT Sam Yan station, placing it within easy reach of central Bangkok. As with all places of worship in Thailand, visitors should dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and should move quietly and respectfully around any ongoing ceremonies. Following the shrine on its Facebook page before visiting is a practical way to check for any special events or ceremonial days.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After San Chao Mae Thapthim Saphan Lueang, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

A hidden gem of Chinese diasporic heritage at risk of being bulldozed. Situated in the middle of high-rise residential projects under construction will you find a Chinese shrine the size of a small house. The shrine’s current building dates back to the 70s but its legacy traces back over a hundred years old, as the spiritual heart of the local Thai-Chinese community chased away by modern gentrification. The work of the Chinese craftspeople is still visible in the interior of the shrine, from the paintings on the beam, the beautiful dragon relief, and the marvelous woodwork, as well as the preservation of traditional worshipping method (which, arguably might need to be modernised somewhat for health/environmental reasons — a story for another time). The shrine’s keepers are a family who have been looking after it for generations. They are being subject to eviction (for a new condo to be built) and are undergoing the appeal process in the administrative court. Does the landlord (a leading public university with it courses on museums and conservation, mind you) have the right to demolish it? Sure. Is demolishing a 50-year-old Chinese diasporic architectural heritage to make way for a high rise condo instead of trying to build around it (which they are probably doing already in case the eviction gets overturned) a good idea? You decide. Keep in mind that they tried to “clone” the shrine and put it next door, but how successful the attempt was depends on who you ask. Also there are three very cute dogs. And I have heard the shrine gives cool boons about work.

There are staff available to guide you through each worship station, and offerings can be purchased inside the shrine at affordable prices. You can select as many items as you like and scan to pay on your own. The goddess Ma Cho is highly revered and has been a sacred presence along this street for many years. However, the shrine is about to be removed due to site renovations.

The Shrine of the Goddess of the Sea, Saphan Lueang, over 150 years old, is a sacred spot for Thai-Chinese. Beautiful Teochew-style, calm vibes. Located in Soi Chulalongkorn 30, near MRT Sam Yan, around 10 mins walk. Open daily 8:00–18:30. Worth a visit if you’re nearby.

Location Info

377 11 ซอย จุฬาลงกรณ์ 30 Khwaeng Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand

Get directions

+66 62 875 5884 www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078705136829&mibextid=ZbWKwL

Opening Hours

Monday08:00-18:00

Tuesday08:00-18:00

Wednesday08:00-18:00

Thursday08:00-18:00

Friday08:00-18:00

Saturday08:00-18:00

Sunday08:00-18:00

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.