San Chao Hainan

4.5(22 reviews)

Tucked along the well-trodden stretch of Thanon Talang in Phuket's Old Town, San Chao Hainan is a Hainanese Chinese shrine that has served its community for over a hundred years. Housed in a striking red Sino-Colonial building, the shrine is dedicated primarily to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess, and stands as a testament to the deep-rooted Hainanese heritage within Phuket's diverse cultural fabric. The vivid red facade draws the eye immediately and contrasts sharply with the surrounding streetscape, making it one of the more visually distinctive stops along this historic road. Visitors can expect a compact but atmospheric place of worship rather than a large-scale temple complex. The interior is intimate, with attentive staff on hand, and entry is free for those wishing to pay their respects or simply look around. While reviewers note it is a modest shrine rather than a grand Chinese temple, its historical significance, careful preservation, and pristine condition make it a rewarding pause for anyone with an interest in Phuket's Peranakan and Chinese immigrant history. As opening hours are not publicly confirmed, it is worth visiting during daytime hours when the shrine is most likely to be active and staffed. San Chao Hainan sits conveniently along a street popular with Old Town walkers, making it an easy addition to a broader stroll through the neighbourhood's Sino-Colonial architecture and heritage sites. Modest, respectful dress is advisable when entering any place of worship in Thailand.

Experience hints

Hidden gem

Pair your visit. After San Chao Hainan, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

In bright red, the stark contrast of this building draws attention of locals and travellers alike. It's amazing to see such historical building being conserved and kept in pristine condition…

Chinese temple for Hainan-Chinese and other communities in Phuket for a hundred year. This shrine is in red Sino-Colonial building. Stop by and prey for free with very attentive staffs.

On a popular street of the old city, in a niche of one of the buildings, a small Chinese temple - Hai Lam - has found its place. Traditionally, the tour of the temple begins from the place with the number 1, where it is customary to light incense - in this temple it is located on the wall and has a special bowl. Next to it is a bell that you can strike, making a wish and making a donation to thank the spirits for its speedy fulfillment. In the depths of the temple is the main altar for prayers and offerings. It is solemnly decorated, and inside there are beautiful figures of Chinese gods. You can visit this temple while walking around Phuket Town to get acquainted with Chinese traditions and take some interesting photos! Full information with video and easy navigation - in the application 👉 PHUKETON

Location Info

40 Thanon Talang, Mueang Phuket, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand

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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.