Wat Rattanachai

Wat Rattanachai, more commonly known as Wat Jin (Chinese temple), is an active temple with Buddhist clergy. Many Teochiu Chinese migrated to this part of the city in the previous century, giving the temple its current nickname. Nearly all of these architectural structures date to the recent Rattanakosin period.

However, this area is strongly featured in the Royal Chronicles. Prince Si Sin, the younger brother of 11-year-old King Yot Fa (executed in 1548 CE), used this site to stage a surprise attack on the Royal Palace. Prince Si Sin advanced by way of the Rattanachai Tower/Gate and moved toward the palace on the back of an elephant. Chao Phraya Maha Sena rode out on a white elephant to stop him but was killed by Prince Si Sin's scythe. Prince Si Sin was later killed in battle at the Royal Palace.

In 1569 CE, Burmese troops attacked the stockade at the river's edge on the side of Rattanachai Gate.

The highlights of Wat Rattanachai are a white bell-shaped chedi perched on a large platform with a staircase and several deep niches on its side. Sections of an ancient wall are also still in situ.

A well-preserved pointed vault gate (Pratu Chong Kut) is beside this Buddhist temple. To visit this bricked gate, you must enter the Wat Rattanachai Municipal School on the western side of the monastery.

Ayutthaya Historical Research