Sanchaophosuea Sub District

DISTRICT: Phra Nakhon

POSTCODE: 10200

San Chaopho Suea is one of twelve sub-districts that constitute Phra Nakhon District. Phra Nakhon has the most sub-districts of any district in Bangkok. It is flanked on two sides by canals including the Rop Krung canal. Tanao Road runs along another side of the sub-district and is where you will find Xuantian Shangdi Temple or tiger god shrine.

The legend is that a tiger had felt remorse after killing a man. The man was the only son of a woman who was left poor and lonely. The tiger then decided that he would take care of and protect the woman. The tiger is a disciple of the Warrior God.

The shrine was first built on Bang Mueang Road in 1834 during the the time of King Rama III. It was later moved to its current site on Tanao Road by order of King Rama V. Made in a southern Chinese architectural style, the temple is one of the most important Taoist shrines in Bangkok. Couples wanting to have a child will come to the temple and make offerings of candied tigers. It is believed that offerings at this temple can bring good fortune and protection from misfortune.

San Chaopho Suea is a popular place for visitors to stay and much of the accommodation caters for backpackers and those on a budget. There are many types of accommodation to choose from including hostels such as Au Bon Hostel, d Hostel Bangkok or the ZEN Hostel Tiger Shrine 2.