The Shrine of King Taksin the Great and Phraya Phichai Dap Hak

The Shrine of King Taksin the Great, Phraya Phichai Dap Hak, and Goddess Tubtim has a rich history. Originally, it was a wooden shrine located in the fields along the Bang Lamphu Canal, outside the walls of the royal city. Its original location was near the Rattanakosin Water Quality Control Station of the Bangkok Drainage Department, which is opposite the current shrine site. Bangkok authorities reclaimed the land and relocated the shrine to its present location along the Bang Lamphu Canal. Thai-Chinese residents of the Ban Phan Thom community came together to raise funds for the restoration of the shrine, aiming to create a sacred place for worship and blessings. The new shrine is a single-story structure made of concrete with a roof tiled with terracotta. Its architectural style resembles a Thai temple but incorporates elements of Chinese shrines, such as roof and column designs. The intricate patterns and symbols reflect the beliefs and stories of the Ban Phan Thom community. This shrine is highly revered by the Bang Lamphu locals and is renowned for its spiritual power in granting blessings and prosperity. Many overseas Chinese who migrated from China sought refuge under the benevolence of Thai kings. The Chinese settlers in this area are predominantly of Teochew descent, the same lineage as King Taksin the Great. As a result, King Taksin is deeply respected by Thai-Chinese communities.