Songkhla City Pillar Shrine
A unique blend of Thai and Chinese heritage, this shrine is a spiritual heart and symbol of Songkhla's origins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Songkhla City Pillar Shrine
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique blend of Thai and Chinese heritage, this shrine is a spiritual heart and symbol of Songkhla's origins.
"Very authentic Chinese temple in Songkhla..worth to visit the temple when u r there..pray for safety and good luck.. the best.."
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🙏 Seek Blessings
Locals visit to pray for safety and good luck. Participate respectfully. :star2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Distinct Chinese Architecture
Admire the striking Chinese eaves and finely carved rafters, a testament to cultural fusion.
The City Pillar
Center of the shrine
A powerful symbol of prosperity and stability, originally carved from special wood.
Spiritual Atmosphere
A peaceful sanctuary where locals seek blessings and good fortune.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cultural Crossroads
Respectful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🙏 Seek Blessings
Locals visit to pray for safety and good luck. Participate respectfully. :star2:
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate Chinese eaves and carvings are beautiful photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🚶 Explore Old Town
Located in the heart of Songkhla's old town, combine your visit with exploring the area. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
🙏 Seek Blessings
Locals visit to pray for safety and good luck. Participate respectfully. :star2:
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate Chinese eaves and carvings are beautiful photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🚶 Explore Old Town
Located in the heart of Songkhla's old town, combine your visit with exploring the area. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Songkhla City Pillar Shrine for its unique Chinese architecture and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting it as a significant cultural landmark. Many appreciate its role as a spiritual center where locals seek blessings and good fortune. While generally well-regarded, some visitors might find it a brief stop compared to larger temples.
"Step into the heart of Songkhla's history at the Songkhla City Pillar Shrine, a place where Thai and Chinese cultures beautifully converge. This isn't your typical Thai temple; its striking Chinese architecture immediately sets it apart, a clear echo of the city's days as a bustling trade hub.
More than just a spiritual centre, the shrine is a living symbol of the city's origins. Its story began in 1842 with a City Pillar carved from a special wood gifted by the king, a powerful symbol of prosperity and stability that has stood the test of time—now a concrete pillar from 1917. As you walk through the temple, you’ll notice the delicate Chinese eaves and finely carved rafters, each detail telling a story of shared beliefs and cultural memory. This is a place where locals come to seek peace and blessings, and where an annual celebration brings the community together in a vibrant display of tradition and faith."
Jony
"chinese pagoda architecture and god. It is very interesting here, people come here also do ciam si."
Phương Duy Nguyễn
"Thais will tell you that you haven’t truly been to any Thai city without paying respects to the city pillar shrine. This one is located in the center of Songkhla old town and clearly reflects its Chinese heritage."
Peter van Zanten
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The shrine is centrally located in Songkhla's old town. You can reach it by local songthaew (shared taxi) or a short taxi ride from most parts of the city. It's easily accessible for exploration on foot once you're in the old town area.
Parking can be limited in the old town area. It's often easier to arrive by public transport or to park a bit further away and walk. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Songkhla City Pillar Shrine is typically free. It's a public place of worship and cultural significance. :ticket:
The shrine is generally open daily from morning until evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere. :clock1:
Photography is usually permitted, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid taking photos of people praying without their permission and refrain from using flash if it might disturb worshippers. :iphone:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The shrine is a vital symbol of Songkhla's origins and prosperity, reflecting a unique blend of Thai and Chinese cultural influences. It's a place where locals come to seek blessings and connect with their heritage. :pray:
It's important to dress modestly out of respect for this active place of worship. This means covering your shoulders and knees. :dress:
Locals often come to pray for safety and good luck. You can observe these practices respectfully. Some visitors also engage in 'ciam si' (fortune telling) if available. :star2:
The main areas of the shrine are generally accessible, but some parts might have stairs. It's a relatively compact site, so most visitors can navigate it comfortably. :wheelchair:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the shrine is located in Songkhla's old town, which is filled with local eateries and street food stalls offering delicious Thai and Chinese-influenced dishes. :forkandknife:
You'll find a variety of local specialties, including seafood, noodles, and traditional Thai desserts. It's a great place to sample authentic regional cuisine. :icecream:
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate Chinese architectural details like the eaves and roof carvings. The main pillar itself and the serene courtyard also make for great shots. :camerawithflash:
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making for more peaceful and clear shots. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light. :sunrise:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tapestry of Cultures
The shrine's origins trace back to 1842 with the installation of a City Pillar, a traditional symbol of a city's foundation and prosperity. While the original pillar was carved from a special wood gifted by the king, a concrete pillar was erected in 1917, continuing this important legacy. This pillar is more than just a structure; it's a spiritual anchor for the community, representing stability and good fortune.
Visitors often remark on the shrine's authentic Chinese temple feel, noting that it's a place where locals come not only for spiritual solace but also to engage in practices like 'ciam si' (fortune telling). This blend of religious devotion and cultural practice makes the Songkhla City Pillar Shrine a unique and enriching destination.
Experiencing the Shrine
When you visit, remember that this is an active place of worship. Dressing modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, is a sign of respect. Locals come here to pray for safety and good luck, and observing these traditions with quiet reverence enhances the experience. The intricate details of the Chinese architecture, from the ornate rooflines to the detailed carvings, are a visual delight and offer excellent opportunities for photography.
Beyond the spiritual aspect, the shrine is situated in the heart of Songkhla's charming old town. This location makes it easy to combine your visit with exploring the surrounding streets, discovering local art, and sampling delicious regional cuisine. It’s a perfect starting point for understanding the historical and cultural fabric of Songkhla.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit