Thailand Travel | Lesser-Known Temples in Bangkok Witness the Glorious History of Chinese Migration to Southeast Asia

Bangkok Dragon Boat Temple Wat Yannawa Phra Aram Luang During the Ming Dynasty of China, there was frequent maritime communication with various countries in Southeast Asia, primarily relying on a type of large sailing ship. The ships were painted red and had dragons leaping on both sides of the bow, commonly known as 'Red Head Ships'. Due to the contributions of the Chinese to the construction of Siam, in the early 19th century, during the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851), an order was given to rebuild a sampan and a stupa, constructing a temple in imitation of the Red Head Ships using steel and concrete. Two stupas were built to represent the masts, and the temple was granted the new name 'Dragon Boat Temple' for the public to admire. In 1987, the temple constructed a Thai-style multipurpose building, three stories high, adorned with five Thai-style roofs, used as a pavilion and hall for preaching, practicing, and meditating, as well as a library. Additionally, the Teochew temple within the grounds was restored, housing Chinese deities. Mae Thorani Temple One hundred meters further, there is another Chinese temple: Mae Thorani Temple, colloquially known as 'Kukai Mae'. The main deity is Mae Thorani, with Guan Yu and the God of Wealth as accompanying deities. Address: 40 Charoen Krung Rd, Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120 Thailand