Thailand's Wat Arun, Yi Peng Festival Named World Night View Heritage Sites

Thailand’s vibrant tourism industry has earned yet another recognition, as Bangkok’s iconic Wat Arun temple and Chiang Mai’s magical lantern festival, Yi Peng Festival, have been named “World Night View Heritage” sites.

These recognitions were given at the recently held Japan Night View Tourism Summit 2024, which was attended by delegates from 50 organizations and local government units in Japan.

According to Motoo Marumaru, President of the YAKEI Convention & Visitors Bureau, this recognition is given to places and events from around the world that offer the most scenic nighttime landscapes. These are determined by a set of criteria, with which a site must pass at least three out of 10.

Wat Arun is one of Thailand’s most visited tourist destinations, boasting a majestic view of the Chao Phraya at night. It has also been used as a location in several international films.

Meanwhile, the Yi Peng Festival is a celebration of the Lanna culture that is unique to the northern part of Thailand. Its largest celebration is held in Chiang Mai, where people hang colorful lanterns outside of their homes and release sky lanterns, illuminating the skies at night.

On the recognition, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Wat Arun and Yi Peng Festival are two of Thailand’s iconic historical and cultural heritages that have been welcoming thousands of visitors every year. These recognitions will surely shine a spotlight on their amazing night view charms and inspire more visits by tourists from around the world.”

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