Phra Yang Yong: The Sacred Sandstone Buddha

The heart of the temple is the monumental Buddha image known as Phra Yang Yong. Carved from solid sandstone in the refined Phayao sculptural tradition, the figure sits in the padmasana (lotus-throne) posture with hands reaching toward the earth in the Maravichai gesture—the pose of the Buddha calling the earth to witness his enlightenment and defeating the demon Mara. Standing 3.22 metres tall with a lap width of 2.00 metres, this is considered the largest and most complete ancient Buddha image associated with the Phayao city gate area.↗

The image dates to approximately the 15th century (20th Buddhist century) and has been venerated as a sacred guardian paired with the city for centuries. Its scale and survival through the decades make it an important example of Lanna-era religious art in northern Thailand.↗

What to See Today

Visitors to Wat Yang Yong today can see the viharn (ordination hall) housing Phra Yang Yong, as well as the remains of an ancient chedi mound and two additional mounds marking the foundations of earlier structures—quiet archaeological footprints of the temple's former grandeur. The grounds are compact compared to the original sprawling complex, but the atmosphere of a riverside temple at the edge of old Phayao still lingers.↗

The temple sits along National Road 1202 in Tha Wang Thong, easily reached from the centre of Phayao town. It is a working monastery with basic visitor facilities including restrooms and wheelchair-accessible parking.↗↗

Visiting Tips

Wat Yang Yong is a quiet local temple rather than a major tourist attraction, so visiting feels personal and unhurried. Dress modestly when entering the viharn—cover shoulders and knees—and remove shoes before stepping onto the worship platform. A short visit here pairs naturally with exploring the old city of Phayao, including Wat Phra That Chom Kiti on its hilltop and the lakefront promenade.