The Zhao Mei Kuan Im Temple is a must see Koh Samui attraction (Photo Courtesy of thing-to-do-thailand.com) |
There are numerous Koh Samui attractions from its beaches
that is ideal for diving, its exotic jungle that is home to equally exotic
plants and animals and the beautiful and intricately designed temples and
religious shrines that are great reflections of the spiritual life, history and
culture of Thailand and its people. A typical Thai temple would have lofty
chapels, murals with colourful and elaborate details that almost always tell
stories of the past, a pagoda, chedi and roofs with pointed spires. There are
also some Chinese temples in Thailand that are related to the spiritual history
of Thailand.
Thai culture is one of the richest and most vibrant cultures in the
world. Many flock to Thailand to discover and experience its effervescent streets;
scrumptious dishes (even their streets foods have their distinct charm);
remarkable history; immaculate islands and beaches; and lovely, endearing
locals. One of these divine islands is Koh Samui located in the Gulf of
Thailand.
There is a Chinese temple in Koh Samui that is dedicated to the goddess
Zhao Mei Kuan Im and is one of the Koh Samui attractions that you should not miss especially if you are a culture
buff or is simply interested in seeing beautiful temples. The walls of the
temple dedicated to the goddess are filled with gorgeous paintings that depict
the life and times of the great and esteemed goddess. The temple is especially
flocked by people and filled with different kinds of offerings during the
festival marking the advent of the Year of the Dragon. Most of the people
visiting the temple are ethnic Chinese and Chinese tourists who deem the temple
as more than just a Koh Samui attraction.
In the temple of the goddess Zhao Mei Kuan Im as well as other Chinese
temples such as the Hainan Temple, dragon dances and other ancient Chinese
traditions can be observed. These traditions are a peak at resemblances of
Chinese and Thai history that are sometimes merging from hundreds or even
thousands of years ago up to the present day. The temple of the goddess is also
the perfect place to watch the sunset as it is located on the southwest of
Samui. From the temple, one could see the view of several islets surrounding
Koh Samui as well. This vista is definitely a Koh Samui attraction that should not be missed and is sure to never
be forgotten.