Here at Saphan Hin Park stands Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine. It is a vibrant testament to Phuket’s Chinese-Thai community. Built in 1996 Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine is relatively new compared to other Phuket shrines. Bang Neaw and Jui Tui are more than a century old.
Once this area was a bustling port during Phuket’s tin mining boom. Now the Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine graces reclaimed land near the sea. A rough beach sits steps away. A wide promenade invites leisurely strolls. On clear days Phi Phi islands shimmer across the bay.
Notice the roofs. They peak skyward adorned with serpentine dragons. Hundreds of red lanterns hang inside. They cast a mystical glow when lit. Two fierce golden dragons wrap around the interior columns. They create a striking welcome.
At the central altar the statue of Kio Thian Keng resides. Other god statues stand nearby. Worshippers bow with respect. They come to make merit here at Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine.
Guan Yin is highly revered here. A five-meter tall white Burmese jade statue stands in a gazebo. Fine Arts Department artisans from China crafted Guan Yin. They followed traditions from the Tang Dynasty. The statue honors the late HM King Rama IX. It celebrates Thai and Chinese people praying together. They pray for eternal prosperity.
Look to the edge of the grounds. Eight life-like Taoist god statues face the sea. The most surprising statue is the silver one of Ji Gong. He was an unorthodox Chan Monk. Chan means meditation. Despite his wild behavior stories tell of Ji Gong’s supernatural powers. He stood up to injustice. He helped the poor.
Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine is most lively during the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Throngs of people make merit. Some volunteer to cook vegetarian food. The festival’s final night is truly special at Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine. Devotees from all Phuket’s Chinese shrines gather. They form a final procession through Phuket Town. The procession ends here. The night air fills with firecracker smoke. The noise is deafening. Festival participants bid farewell to the festival gods. It is a boisterous closing ceremony. It is the sending-off spot for all the deities and gods ascending to the Taoist heavens. Participants are allowed to return to a normal diet after nine days of devotion.
Anyone can visit Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine any day. Modest dress is advised. Remove your shoes before entering the main shrine. During the Vegetarian Festival wear all white as a sign of respect.
Unlike Thai Buddhist temples there are no monks here. Volunteer caretakers maintain the site. If you explore Saphan Hin park take a moment to visit Kio Thian Keng Saphan Hin Shrine. Reflect on its beauty. Consider its significance. Remember the traditions it upholds.