Tha Rua Shrine (Chinese temple)

Since Phuket has a quite large population of Chinese residents, their rich culture and traditions are evident in quaint Chinese temples and shrines around the island, as well as the annual Vegetarian Festival.

Tha Rua Shrine is the 4th-oldest temple in Phuket. It’s located south from the Heroines Monument on Thepkasattri Road on the way to Phuket International Airport. The temple is painted in bright gold, red and green, with many striking sculpted dragons and traditional Chinese paintings throughout.

The centre of Tha Rua Shrine’s front terrace has a huge brass container, which was brought to Phuket from China. Inside the prayer hall, you’ll find several statues of Guan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy) and prominent Taoist deities.