Bangkok Architectural Heritage Amidst Unstoppable Development
Bangkok Architectural Heritage Amidst Unstoppable Development
From Thailanding.Co | Aug 5, 2024
Another side of Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, holds countless legends and beliefs. With a 239-year-old history, this city has witnessed many events and has grown alongside civilization through the perspectives of locals and various generations who have struggled to survive in the capital, preserving ancient legends to this day. If you’re a foreign tourist seeking to witness the city’s beauty, including ancient architecture, temples, and tall buildings standing proudly amidst the city, all these coexist harmoniously. This is the charm of the capital that you must see with your own eyes at least once, and you’ll discover the balanced life you’ve been searching for.
- Wat Arun Ratchawararam
Another religious and historical tourist destination in Thailand, this temple is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is a prominent landmark in Bangkok. Wat Arun Ratchawararam, commonly known as Wat Chaeng, has a long history dating back to the Ayutthaya period. It’s a significant landmark that attracts tourists from around the world who come to admire its beauty, including its exquisite architecture. The temple is adorned with vibrant glazed tiles and marble patterns, with a 79-meter-tall central prang on a square base and extensions on all four sides, decorated with large statues of Tosakanth demons.
Highlights for Tourists at Wat Arun Ratchawararam
- The Phra Viharn Daeng pavilion on the west side of the temple is an ancient Thai-style pavilion.
- The Wat Arun Ratchawararam Museum, which showcases the temple’s history and important artifacts.
- The main ordination hall in front of the central prang houses a revered Buddha statue.
- The small viharn to the south of the main ordination hall enshrines a reclining Buddha.
Moreover, Wat Arun Ratchawararam is a popular spot where tourists often rent traditional Thai outfits at the temple’s entrance to take photos around the temple. These photos have become viral on social media, gaining likes and shares among both Thai and Chinese people. Visitors from Japan and other countries who visit this place are often very impressed with the experience of wearing traditional Thai attire at this iconic site.
- Yaowarat (Chinatown)
Another highly popular destination now gaining global attention, thanks to Lisa from BLACKPINK who filmed her music video here. This has made Yaowarat another viral sensation. But did you know that Yaowarat is not only the largest Chinatown in Thailand, but it also has a long history and intriguing culture? Yaowarat emerged in the late 18th century when Chinese immigrants settled along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, mainly from Guangdong province. They brought not only their culture and traditions but also their religion, which they introduced to Thailand. In the 19th century, as more Chinese fled turmoil and settled in Bangkok, Yaowarat became a pioneering Chinese community that grew even more vibrant.
Highlights for Tourists at Yaowarat (Chinatown)
- Today, Yaowarat is a popular tourist attraction with many shops, including gold stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, and famous street food vendors.
- Historical and cultural attractions like Wat Traimitr Withayaram Worawihan.
- The Tian Fa Museum.
- The iconic Yaowarat Hotel.
Furthermore, Yaowarat is a lively community that never sleeps, filled with bustling crowds, especially during the Chinese New Year, when grand celebrations are held. Yaowarat is also an excellent example of the seamless blend of modernity and history while maintaining its original cultural identity.
- Sathorn District
Sathorn is one of the most prosperous areas in Bangkok today. It’s known as an economic district with a long history. During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), Khlong Sathorn was dug through this area, marking the beginning of a community and a significant trading post. After World War II, Sathorn became recognized as an important business district, home to international companies, banks, and various businesses, attracting many people who decided to live in this area. Today, this district has become a major business hub in Bangkok, featuring world-class office buildings, luxurious hotels, large shopping centers, and numerous entertainment venues. It’s considered one of the most economically valuable and densely populated areas.
Highlights for Tourists in Sathorn District
- Lumphini Park, a large public park in the city center, often referred to as the “lungs of the metropolis,” where city dwellers can be seen jogging in the mornings and evenings to relieve stress and exercise.
- Sala Daeng BTS Station, a key station in the area that connects to other important routes in central Siam, making it a convenient stop for tourists visiting this district.
- ICONSIAM, a thriving shopping mall with numerous high-end brands and a modern business center catering to global dignitaries.
Moreover, the heart of Sathorn is another great place to check in and take photos. The surrounding area is filled with office buildings, making it the economic center that drives Thailand forward every day.
