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The western bank of the Chao Phraya River is the birthplace of the current dynasty. Centered around Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), this area is one of Bangkok's greatest tourist spots, with important Buddhist temples, government ministries, a university and more all in one place. As the area lacks a nearby Skytrain station, it's best to take either a taxi, bus or boat when visiting the area. The Royal Grand Palace and the patron temple of the dynasty lie on a 218,000m2 site surrounded by white walls along the shore of the Chao Phraya. Following its construction in 1782, extensions and renovations were carried out one after another by a long line of kings and giving the site its current form. An jade Buddha, the principle image of Thai Buddhism, is enshrined in the main temple, giving rise to the building also being known as "The Temple of the Emerald Buddha." Address 1 Sanam Chai Rd. Tel （02）222-0094 Hours 9:00〜15:30 Holidays No set holidays (may close for events related to the Grand Royal Palace) Admission 250B (includes entrance to the Vimanmek Mansion with admission) On the western bank of the Chao Phraya is Wat Arun-The Temple of the Dawn. A novel of the same name (Akatsuki no Tera in Japanese) by author Yukio Mishima is also known in Japan. Covered with intricately laid broken porcelain, this massive Buddhist tower brilliantly shines when bathed in the morning sun and is truly a temple of the dawn. Address Sri Ayutthaya Rd. Tel （02）465-5640 Hours 9:00〜17:00 Holidays Open year-round Admission 20B Said to have been built during the reign of the Ayutthaya dynasty, Wat Pho is Bangkok's oldest and most historical temple. The main temple's massive gold plated reclining Buddha (designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana) is 46 meters long, 15 meters high and so large that the entirety of the statue goes beyond the normal field of vision. As well, the bottom of the Buddha's feet are engraved with mother of pearl decoration showing the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha. Address 2 Sanam Chai Rd. Tel （02）221-1969 Hours 9:00〜17:00 Holidays Open year-round Admission 20B Built by King Rama I, the main Buddha image enshrined in this temple is the largest of its kind from the Sukhothai dynasty, with a base 6.25 meters wide and 8 meters high. Additionally, the temple is famous for its murals depicting the "Sutra of the Three Incarnations", one of the oldest sutras in Thailand. Address 146 Bamrung Muang, Ratborpit Tel （02）221-4026 Hours 9:00〜17:00 Holidays Open year-round Admission 20B Siam Square is a large shopping area overflowing with young people, and with its central location to popular nearby tourist spots, makes it possible to combine shopping and sightseeing all in one trip. Moreover, the minute and labyrinth-like alleys of Chinatown bustle with markets and small shops huddled together. The residence of American entrepreneur and Thai silk magnate Jim Thompson is a historical combination of traditional Thai architecture teak buildings constructed between 100 - 200 years ago. These buildings were dismantled and brought to the present site, some from as far away as the old capital of Ayutthaya. Famous not only for its collection of Thai art, but works of art from around Southeast Asia as well, the art that decorates this stately manor is a national treasure to the Thai people and truly spectacular. Address 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama1 Rd. Tel （02）234-4900 Hours 9:00〜17:00 Holidays Open year-round Admission 100B (50B for those 25 and under) Standing 309m high, this hotel/complex facility claims the title of the tallest building in Thailand and second tallest building in all of Asia. The observation deck on the 84th floor slowly rotates for a commanding view of the city below and is open to the elements, receiving full marks for thrill seekers. Address 84F Baiyoke Sky, 222 Ratchaprarop Rd. Tel （02）656-3000 Hours 10:00〜22:00 (open 9:30 on Saturdays and Sundays) Holidays Open year-round Admission 120B