Shanghai’s Legendary Lantern Festival Illuminates Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River

In celebration of five decades of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, a spectacular cultural event has arrived on Bangkok’s riverfront. ICONSIAM, in collaboration with the renowned Shanghai Yuyuan Tourist Mart Group, has launched the Yuyuan Lantern Festival, marking the festival’s international debut in Thailand.

Running daily until August 15, the festival takes place from 16:00 to 22:00 at River Park, G Floor, ICONSIAM, and admission is free to the public.

A First for Thailand: Bridging Cultures Through Light

This dazzling event, officially titled Spirit of Mountains and Seas · Yuyuan Lantern Festival and 2025 China–Thailand Culture Month, transforms the banks of the Chao Phraya River into an enchanting dreamscape. Inspired by the Shan Hai Jing, a classical Chinese text rich with mythical stories and creatures, the theme reimagines the riverside as a fantastical “Chao Phraya Island,” where tradition meets technology.

Each lantern installation is a standalone island filled with light, shadow, and interactive digital features, bringing ancient Chinese mythology to life — all in tribute to the enduring ties between the two nations.

A Cultural Treasure with Over 100 Years of History

Originating from Shanghai’s famous Yuyuan Garden, the Yuyuan Lantern Festival is a revered part of China’s intangible cultural heritage. Its arrival in Thailand not only marks a historic first but also serves as a cultural milestone in honour of 50 years of Thai–Chinese relations.

More Than Lanterns: A Month of Culture and Celebration

The experience goes beyond visual art. Visitors can enjoy:

• Traditional performances
• Local markets
• Themed cultural weeks
• Exhibitions of art and light

Whether you’re drawn by the luminous artistry or the deeper cultural connections, the Yuyuan Lantern Festival in Bangkok offers a unique chance to witness the fusion of heritage, technology, and international friendship in one unforgettable riverside event.