Introduction
Wat Yannawa is a third-class royal Buddhist temple (พระอารามหลวง ชั้นตรี) under the Mahanikaya sect, located on Charoen Krung Road along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok’s Sathon District. Known for its iconic boat-shaped chedi, the temple is unique in its design and historical significance. Originally dating back to the Ayutthaya period, it was first called “Wat Khok Khwai” (Buffalo Stable Temple) due to the area’s livestock trading activities. During the reign of King Rama III, the temple underwent a major renovation and was renamed “Wat Yannawa,” meaning “the vessel of Dharma,” in reference to the Chinese junk-shaped stupa built to preserve the memory of traditional maritime vessels. Today, the temple stands as both a spiritual center and a historical attraction, drawing locals and tourists alike.
History of Wat Yannawa
Wat Yannawa is a historic Buddhist temple with origins dating back to the Ayutthaya period. In its early years, it was known as Wat Khok Khwai, which translates to “Buffalo Stable Temple,” a name derived from the area’s role as a trading ground for livestock, particularly buffaloes, by early Mon and Tavoyan settlers.
During the Thonburi period, the temple gained importance and was later elevated to royal temple status. In the reign of King Rama I, the temple underwent significant improvements, including the construction of a new ordination hall (ubosot).
However, it was in the reign of King Rama III (1824–1851) that Wat Khok Khwai was transformed into the unique temple it is today. King Rama III ordered the restoration of the temple and commissioned the construction of two chedis in the shape of a Chinese trading junk, to preserve the memory of such vessels which were being phased out due to modern changes in maritime trade. As a result of this architectural innovation, the temple was renamed Wat Yannawa, meaning “the vessel of navigation” or “boat temple.”
The temple symbolizes the king’s foresight in preserving traditional culture and trade heritage. It also reflects the integration of spiritual values with socio-economic symbolism during a time of rapid modernization in Siam (now Thailand).
Wat Yannawa has since remained a prominent religious and historical site and was officially registered as a national historic monument on March 15, 1983.
The principal Buddha image enshrined in the ordination hall (ubosot) of Wat Yannawa is a seated Buddha in the Meditation posture (Dhyāna Mudrā), known in Thai as Phra Phuttha Chinnarat. This image is crafted in the Ayutthaya style and was installed during the reign of King Rama I, when the ubosot was constructed. The image symbolizes inner peace and spiritual focus, aligning with the temple’s emphasis on meditative practice.
Additionally, the ubosot features unique murals on its doors and windows, depicting large krathongs (decorative floats) used in the Royal Lantern Festival (Loi Prathip) and yaku jars associated with royal merit-making ceremonies. These artworks reflect the temple’s historical significance and its connection to royal traditions.
For more detailed information and visual references, you may visit the temple’s official page or consult resources from the Thai Department of Fine Arts.
History of the Samphao Chedi (Ship Chedi)
According to local legend, in the 3rd reign (King Rama III), three monks set out on a journey by boat from Wat Kalayanamit to worship the Phra Phuttha Sothon image in Chachoengsao. On the way back, as they passed by the mouth of the canal here, a strong wind and current capsized the boat and the monks drowned. The people in the area, moved by the tragic event, built a small pagoda at the site to honor the deceased monks. Later, when the structure eroded and collapsed, the locals rebuilt it this time shaping it like a Chinese junk (ship). Since then, the pagoda has been known as “Phra Samphao Chedi.”
When His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) passed by the area on his way back from inspecting flood relief efforts in the eastern provinces, he noticed the pagoda and remarked to his entourage that it looked like a large ship sailing out to sea. From then on, locals would refer to it by saying: “When the tide rises, the ship sets sail.” Inspired by the King’s observation, the pagoda was restored and has become an important cultural landmark ever since.
Commemorating Merit and Monarchy: A Plaque Beneath a Thai Chedi
The image captures a solemn, well-maintained corner of a Buddhist sacred structure in Thailand, most likely a chedi (เจดีย์) or stupa, given the architectural curvature and layered cornices at the top of the frame. Nestled within the whitewashed base of the structure is a black plaque bordered in a minimalist frame. The contrast between the bright white of the temple wall and the dark, inscribed plaque draws immediate attention to the textual content, which is elegantly rendered in gold Thai script. Above the plaque, the wall features small, evenly spaced windows with green ornamental latticework, hinting at the aesthetic intricacies embedded in Thai Buddhist architecture.
The plaque commemorates a significant royal act performed by King Rama IX (พระบาทสมเด็จพระปรมินทรมหาภูมิพลอดุลยเดช), whose full title is partly abbreviated but remains legible. The inscription notes the royal placement of relics within this chedi, specifically referencing “ยานาคา ๑.๓ (มหาเจดีย์บูรพาจารย์)” a designation that possibly refers to a relic of importance or a designation of the chedi as part of a broader national religious heritage project. This act was performed on the 22nd of February, 2535 B.E. (1992 C.E.), and was intended to honor the memory of past Buddhist masters and to strengthen the spiritual unity of Thai Buddhists.
The phrasing of the inscription emphasizes themes of royal devotion to Buddhism, merit-making, and the role of the monarchy as a moral and spiritual leader. It highlights the intersection of religious piety and national identity in Thailand, where the monarchy and the sangha (monastic community) are closely intertwined. This moment captured in stone serves not only as a record of historical devotion but also as a symbolic reinforcement of Thai Buddhist continuity through royal patronage.
In sum, this photo encapsulates more than a decorative element of temple architecture; it is a visual testament to the deep ties between religion and kingship in Thailand. The simplicity of the frame and the plaque contrasts with the sacredness of the act it records, inviting viewers to reflect on the enduring spiritual and cultural values that underpin Thai society.
Sacred Symbolism on a Weathered Temple Door
This photograph captures a pair of old wooden temple doors, intricately painted and set within a bright red and white frame. Though time has faded the colors and worn the surface, the remaining details reveal a rich tapestry of Thai Buddhist symbolism. At the center of each panel is a tall, tiered ceremonial offering structure (พานพุ่ม), adorned with lotus motifs, flames, and ornate decorations symbols of devotion and merit-making.
Beneath these, floating lotus flowers and krathong like offerings rest on painted water, evoking themes of impermanence and spiritual purity. The surrounding modern elements, such as the thermostat and polished tile, contrast with the age of the doors, highlighting the blending of tradition and modern life in temple spaces.
This image serves as a quiet testimony to the enduring spiritual and artistic heritage found in Thai temples, where even faded surfaces continue to radiate sacred meaning.
