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Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im

A riverside Chinese Buddhist temple dedicated to Kuan Im, the Goddess of Mercy, in central Kanchanaburi.

4.6(163)River Kwai Bridge Railway Station · 4 min walk
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 07:00–18:00
Getting there
River Kwai Bridge Railway Station
4 min walk

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.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday07:00–18:00
Tuesday07:00–18:00
Wednesday07:00–18:00
Thursday07:00–18:00
Friday07:00–18:00
Saturday07:00–18:00
Sunday07:00–18:00

Why go, and how to do it well

Situated along Mae Nam Kwai Road in central Kanchanaburi, this Chinese Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kuan Im, the Goddess of Mercy — a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhist tradition widely venerated across Thailand's Chinese-heritage communities. The temple's riverside setting lends it a calm, contemplative quality that sets it apart from more heavily visited sites in the region, making it a meaningful cultural stop for travelers seeking to understand the spiritual diversity woven into Thai religious life.

Visitors can expect a peaceful atmosphere with traditional devotional architecture, incense offerings, and the quiet rhythms of local worship. The site offers genuine insight into the blending of Chinese Buddhist practice with Thai temple culture — something particularly characteristic of Kanchanaburi's heritage. Its consistent visitor ratings reflect a place that resonates both with those drawn to its spiritual significance and those simply looking for a tranquil pause along the river.

The temple is open every day of the week from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it easy to incorporate into a broader itinerary that might include nearby historical sites along the River Kwai. Early morning visits tend to offer the quietest experience and the most atmospheric light. As with all sacred sites in Thailand, modest dress is expected — covered shoulders and knees show respect for the space and those actively worshipping there. No admission fee is indicated, and no advance booking is required.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Aug 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.

423 Maenamkwai Road, Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

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.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im worth visiting?

Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im holds a 4.6★ rating from 163 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Kanchanaburi.

What are the opening hours of Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im?

Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im is typically open 07:00–18:00 — 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 Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im?

The best months to visit Kanchanaburi are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in November – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (extreme heat).

Where is Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im located?

Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im is at 423 Maenamkwai Road, Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.

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