Tha Rua Shrine, North of Phuket Town
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Tha Rua Shrine, North of Phuket Town |
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About thirty percent of Phuket's population are Chinese. They have their own Taoism belief and their own shrines that are different to a Thai temple. Here is a short introduction to five Chinese shrines, conveniently situated in Phuket downtown. |
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Sam San Shrine, situated at west end of Krabi Road, is dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. Built in 1853, serves as the patron saint of sailors. A ceremony is held to bless newly launched boats. |
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Shrine of Serene Light is situated at west end of Phangngaa Road. A treasure easily missed - even by locals! Built in 1889 this Taoist temple was built by a Hokkien Chinese family. The interior wall murals tell many stories of Si-in-gui, a legendary folk hero. Chinese characters on the two side walls are blessings for healing and good luck. The garden in front provides a calm sanctuary from the bustle of the city. Spot a small archway indicating a Chinese temple. Walk up a narrow lane and behold the Shrine of Serene Light. Tour through on your own. You are friendly asked to give a small donation for this gem's preservation. |
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Pud Jow Shrine, situated at west end of Ranong Road, is the oldest in Phuket. Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, it was built over 200 years ago, and renovated about 100 years ago after a severe fire. |
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Jui Tui Shrine, situated next to Pud Jow Shrine, is dedicated to the Vegetarian God Kiu Wong In. On the altar amongst the offerings a visitor should notice the red blocks carved from bamboo roots. They will assist you in making decisions. Toss lightly in the air while asking a "yes" or "no" question. When they both land with the same sides up, the answer is "no", if one is up and the other down, the answer is "yes". The visitors are asked to leave a donation for the shrine's upkeep. |
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Bang Niew Shrine is situated at the south-east corner of Phuket downtown near the market. |
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Did you enjoy this little introduction in an unknown world? Go on visiting some more Chinese shrines at Phuket town. The Tiger Ghosts invite you to visit Thye Guan Tong Shrine. (Pictures of more shrines coming soon.) |
 Thye Guan Tong Shrine |
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