Viharn Sien: Chinese Sculptures Steal The Show
Nida Tunsuttiwong
I recently got the opportunity to discover several fascinating destinations in and around Pattaya, including a vineyard featuring lots of adventurous activities (read more), as well as a mountain engraved with an image of the Lord Buddha (read more). But of all my trips to the province of Chon Buri over recent weeks, the most impressive was a visit to Viharn Sien (‘The pavilion of Chinese immortals’).
Also widely referred to as Anek-Kusala Sala, the Chinese-style pavilion is home to thousands of genuine examples of the Chinese arts, including terracotta warriors that once guarded the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Ying Zheng), the first emperor of the Chinese state of Qin.
Majestic presence
Construction began in 1988 to mark His Majesty King Bhumibol Ayudyadej’s 60th birthday anniversary celebrations and work was completed four years and six months later.
Located alongside the temple complex of Wat Yan Sangwararam, which benefits from HM the King’s Royal patronage, Viharn Sien occupies a seven-rai (1.12-hectare) plot. The king personally named the Chinese pavilion Anek-Kusala Sala and presided over its official opening ceremony on December 24, 1993
In general, the structure resembles a large Chinese temple. People often remember the building due to its impressive collection of black bronze sculptures depicting Chinese deities, heroes and heroines.
On arrival, visitors will get sight of over 60 granite sculptures from the Chinese province of Kwangtung, China, including the Eight Immortals (Baxian) from Taoist legend. The most outstanding sculptures are of two stone lions. Reaching a height of 3.5 meters and weighing in at 22 tons, the beasts guarding Viharn Sien are said to be the world’s largest stone lions.
The huge collection of black bronze images of Chinese deities, immortals and heroes, can be found on the first floor of the building, along with a collection of Chinese paintings. Many of the exhibits date back to the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907).
The terracotta warriors, which once stood guard at Emperor Yong Zheng’s mausoleum, were among 328 antiques and objects d’art donated to the center by China’s ministry of culture. Each piece is individual and they represent several fields of military personnel, including archers, strategists, and swordsmen. This attraction also features two sets of warriors with horses and chariots, all in superb condition.
Martial artistry
You’ll find lots more bronze images of Chinese gods on the second floor, while there is also a collection of 18 figures representing Shaolin monks – each demonstrating ‘18 Wonderful Methods [of Shaolin]’, which tend to be of particular interest among children.
There is a smaller pavilion on either side of the main pavilion, as well as two small collections, one focused on musical instruments, and the other on vessels that are used in the majestic Royal Barge Procession.
As well as playing host to some wonderful examples of extremely detailed wood carving, there is also a traditional Thai Buddha image enshrined on the top floor, which is surrounded by colorful murals depicting the various stages of the life of the Lord Buddha.
Viharn Sien opens daily from 8 am to 5 pm and there is a 50-baht (US$1.50) entrance fee. For further information, call Tel: +66 (0)38 238 367.
Transport connections:
Car: From Pattaya, drive along Sukhumvit Road (Highway 3) in the direction on Sattahip district. Once you pass the Ambassador Hotel, prepare to turn left at kilometer (km) maker 161 and drive for another 5 km. You will soon see Khao Chee Chan (a mountain engraved with image of a seated Buddha) in the distance. Look out for a sign to Viharn Sien and take the left turn. You will soon find Viharn Sien on the right hand side of the road.
Credit: TAN Network (www.tannetwork.tv)
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