Hua Hin holds merit-making ceremony at Thapthim Shrine

A merit-making ceremony at the Thapthim Shrine brought together local officials, community leaders and residents on Friday, highlighting the continued importance of the centuries-old site to Hua Hin’s coastal community.

The merit-making ceremony at Thapthim Shrine was held on 17 April in the seaside area of Hua Hin, where Ms Pailin Kongphan, Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin City Municipality, presided over proceedings. The ceremony included the offering of a midday meal to nine monks, in line with traditional Buddhist practices.

Phra Khru Phisut Phawanaphithan (Ekdanuai Chotithammo), advisor to the Hua Hin district ecclesiastical chief and abbot of Hua Hin Temple, led the monastic rites. Among those attending were Mr Kitipong Siripetchkasem, President of the Hua Hin/Cha-am Tourism Business Association; Ms Wassana Srikanchana, advisor to the association; and Mr Chalermpol Choksuchat, President of the Thapthim Shrine. Representatives from local organisations, including the Wai Sod Sai Club and the Hua Hin Enchanted Land Learning Centre, were also present, along with more than 100 residents from the seaside community.

Thapthim Shrine remains a key cultural landmark

The Thapthim Shrine is regarded as one of Hua Hin’s long-standing places of worship and holds particular significance for Thai-Chinese communities in the area. Located along Hua Hin Beach on Naresdamri Road, close to the Hilton hotel, the site consists of four shrines dedicated to Thapthim, Guanyin, Chao Pho Sainam Khiao and Chao Pho Sombun. The complex is commonly known as the Thapthim Shrine, reflecting the first deity introduced by early Chinese migrants who established the site.

Thapthim, also known as Tui Buey Teng Niang, is revered as a sea goddess and is closely associated with protection and prosperity. Local fishermen have long visited the shrine to seek blessings for safety at sea, while residents and visitors come to pray for good fortune, particularly during festival periods.

Beyond its religious role, the shrine is also a recognised viewpoint overlooking Hua Hin Beach. The area offers wide views of the coastline, with the nearby fishing pier visible in the distance. Its location, along with nearby restaurants and souvenir shops, has made it a familiar stop for both residents and visitors over many years.