Mae Nam · Cultural Sites
Chinese Temple of Maenam
A small, colourful Chinese temple built in 2008 in Maenam village, close to the beach and the Thursday walking-street street. It reflects the Chinese heritage of Samui's early settlers and hosts community events and Chinese New Year celebrations. Free entry.
- Free
- Mae Nam
- Checked 25 Sept
Insider tips
- Visit on Thursday evening and enjoy the walking street at the same time.
- Parking in the village is difficult - walk from the ring road.
- Compare it with the older, larger Chinese shrines in Nathon and Hua Thanon.
The story
The Chinese Temple of Maenam is a small but ornate Chinese shrine in the narrow streets of Maenam village, a short walk from Maenam Beach and the pier. According to local accommodation guides it was built in 2008 and serves the descendants of the Chinese settlers who were among Koh Samui's earliest communities. Both the outside and inside are colourful and richly decorated in Chinese style, quite different in feel from the island's Thai Buddhist wats.
Read moreShow less
The temple square in front is a community space: the weekly Maenam walking-street market takes place on the street nearby on Thursday evenings, and a small stage toward the pier is used for community events. Chinese New Year is celebrated here in style with decorations and festivities. The shrine gives a hint of the island's Chinese roots in a village setting.
Detailed published history is limited to local guide sources, so treat specifics with caution. Entry is free; donations are welcome.
Good to know
- Generally open in daylight hours.
- Free
- Thursday evening to combine with the Maenam walking street; daytime for quiet viewing.
- Family friendly: Yes
Plan a visit
Free route: you go by your own scooter, car or on foot and we work out the order. Private tour: a local driver picks you up and takes you.
Checked 25 Sept 2026 · 5 sources
Sources and last check
- Last checked
- 25 Sept 2026
- What was checked
- Details checked 25 Sept 2026
- Next check due
- September 2027
Official sources
No official source published yet for this page.
Plus 5 other references and local research.
