Wat U Taphao

Wat U Taphao is located on Wiboon Pracharak Road, Nong Mai Daeng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chonburi Province. This temple stands out for its unique ordination hall built on a base shaped like a Chinese junk ship, surrounded by water, making it a beautiful and symbolic structure that reflects the area’s maritime history.

 

The temple’s origin comes from a local legend about a man who made his living by selling goods on a boat. One day, after selling out all his products, he stopped near a floating house community. That night, a massive fire broke out, and the villagers, in panic, placed their belongings and valuables on his boat to keep them safe. After the fire was extinguished, he waited for the owners to return and claim their belongings, but no one came back. Out of his deep faith and compassion, the man decided to sell all the unclaimed valuables and use the money to build a temple, dedicating the merit to the rightful owners.

 

The temple was built on his land, and additional land was purchased to expand it. The name Wat U Taphao comes from the discovery of a sunken Chinese junk ship in the area where the temple was built. Tools and equipment related to cooking and shipbuilding were also found, leading to the belief that this area was once part of the sea and a former shipyard. The name “U Taphao” reflects this history and has been used ever since.

 

Inside the junk-shaped ordination hall is Luang Pho Chai, a revered Buddha image that devotees come to worship and seek blessings for prosperity and success. During the Loy Krathong Festival, the hall becomes a prime location for the traditional floating of krathongs, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

 

Another highlight of the temple is its large central chedi, which plays an important role in temple ceremonies, especially during the unique “Sky Floating Kathin” tradition. In this ritual, devotees sew banknotes together into a long strip, which is then attached to a rope running from the chedi’s pinnacle down to the ground. As more people contribute, the strip of banknotes grows longer and is gradually raised higher, creating a stunning sight as it sways gracefully in the wind — a beautiful symbol of collective faith and generosity.

 

The temple grounds also feature a giant reclining Buddha image, situated near statues of Phra Sangkachai, known for bringing wealth, wisdom, and compassion, and Phra Sri Ariya Metteyya (Maitreya), the future Buddha who will attain enlightenment as the fifth and final Buddha of this world cycle.

 

Visitors will also find a shrine housing statues of many famous monks from across Thailand, such as Luang Pu Thuat of Wat Sao Hai, Luang Pho Ngern of Wat Bang Klan, Luang Pu Suk of Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao, Somdet Toh of Wat Phrom Rangsi, and Luang Pho Koon of Wat Ban Rai. This makes the temple a spiritual hub for worshippers seeking blessings from highly revered figures.

 

Wat U Taphao is easily accessible by private car, with a large parking area that can accommodate many visitors. The temple grounds are spacious, clean, and shaded, offering a peaceful atmosphere for both worship and relaxation. For those without a car, motorcycle taxis are available from the entrance of the main road leading to the temple. Return rides are also available from the temple gate.

 

It’s important to note that the temple does not sell flowers, incense, or candles, so visitors should bring their own. However, these items can be purchased at San Thep Thepa Shrine, which is located nearby.

 

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance, Wat U Taphao is not only a place of worship but also a meaningful cultural destination. A visit here offers not just merit-making but also a memorable experience of tranquility and devotion, leaving visitors with blessings and lasting impressions.