Kuan Yim Shrine

Temple in Bangkok

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.

The vibrant Kuan Yim Shrine, established during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), was built between 1903 and 1905 as part of the Thian Fa Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Chinese immigrants in 1902. Surrounding the shrine is a hospital that originally provided free traditional Chinese medical care to the underprivileged while the shrine offered spiritual healing. Today, the hospital combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern treatments.

The shrine is dedicated to Kuan Yim (or Guan Yin), the Chinese goddess of mercy, known in Thailand as Bodhisattva Phra Avalokitesuan. Revered for nearly 3,000 years, she represents love, compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. The shrine’s centerpiece is a stunning 900-year-old golden teak statue of Kuan Yim, dating back to the Tang dynasty and imported from China in 1958. Her right hand forms the Varada mudra, symbolizing charity and offering. The temple’s walls feature intricate Chinese-style murals depicting various deities.

This beloved shrine is particularly busy during Chinese holidays, such as New Year, when locals visit to pray for blessings in health, fertility, success (especially for students), and happiness. Visitors often bring flowers, light candles, or burn incense sticks placed in sand-filled bowls as offerings. Open daily until late, the shrine maintains a serene atmosphere. Tip: Be sure to remove your shoes before entering.

The Kuan Yim Shrine appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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