Thailand

The capital of the province of the same name, Yasothon, the beauty of the northeast, fascinates visitors with its unique culture and traditions. During normal times, this city in the Isaan region keeps a low profile. However, the monuments and temples of the city remain noteworthy. In May, during the rocket festival, the city comes alive and becomes very lively. An experience not to be missed.

Yasothon's memories

The city was established at the initiative of Phra Sunthon Ratchawong Sa, the first administrator of the Yasothon administrative division.

In Thailand, beliefs and religions give rise to customs and traditions deeply rooted in the population's way of life. The inhabitants of Yasothon are mostly animists.

Frogs hold particular importance in the city. The city's history is deeply connected to these amphibians. An entire museum is dedicated to them, the Phraya Khan Khak.

According to legend, Prince Toad Phaya Khankhak fought against the rain god Phaya Thaen for the salvation of the inhabitants. The confrontations led to a compromise between the two belligerents. Defeated, the deity agrees to moisten the earth with rain as soon as the residents of Yasothon send special signals into the sky.

Today: An agricultural city known for the Bun Bang Fai Festival

The population mainly lives off agriculture. Yasothon is renowned for its high-quality jasmine rice. According to the population's beliefs, Phaya Thaen waits for rocket launches to bring rain during planting cycles. Around mid-May, Yasothon hosts an exceptional festival to pay homage to this deity. The festivities last for 3 days:

The first day is marked by a ritual in honor of Chao Pu, the city's protective spirit. It's a time of preparation. The final touches are made meticulously.

On the second day, numerous dancers in elaborate costumes and elegantly decorated floats take to the streets. The most beautiful rockets are displayed for the public to see. There's plenty of food, and musicians pleasantly entertain the crowds.

On the third day, handmade rockets are launched from special ramps. The spectacle is breathtaking. This event is followed by various competitions and rituals for the ordination of monks.

City must-sees

Phaya Thaen Public Park

Built in honor of the rain god of Isaan, this park is the epicenter of the city's tourism. It's where the rocket festival, the water festival, and the Buddhist New Year (Songkran) are celebrated every year. The site is exceptional. The Than River shapes the landscape. The gardens are well-wooded, floral, and elegantly arranged.

The park offers many attractions. In addition to playgrounds, it houses the Phraya Khan Khak Museum, a landmark of the city. This building, shaped like a giant frog, collects the history, beliefs, and customs of Yasothon.

In the park, on the bank of Huai Thuan, stands Phaya Naga, another historical building in the shape of a Naga (mythical serpent, water deity). Right next to this building, on a concrete esplanade, are human-sized dolls. Their colors attract attention, and the finishes approach reality. Real masterpieces.

Sanctuaries:

Wat Mahathat Yasothon

Richly decorated and beautifully designed, this temple is a very important place of worship in Thailand. In its precincts stands the Chedi Phra That Anon. This stupa houses the relics of Ananda, one of Buddha's 10 favorite disciples.

Wat Si Thammaram

Known for its museum stupa, this sanctuary catches the eye with imposing Naga sculptures placed at its entrance. This temple houses a unique object of worship, the statue of Buddha Phra Suk.

Wat Tung Sawang Chaiyaphum

Located in the center of the city, this sanctuary is a place of contemplation and offering. Square in shape, this temple was built around 1825 in honor of the Laotian sovereign Phraya Ratchasupawadi.

San Chao Po Lak Muang Yasothon

Built in 1987, this pillar shrine is a skillfully balanced blend of Chinese, Thai, and Laotian architecture. The sculptures, pavilions, stupas, and ornaments are remarkable. The tones and ornaments of these elements charm the eye from the first glance.

Muniti Ruam Samakhi

Built in honor of the Muniti Foundation, this spiritual center is beautifully designed. With vibrant colors and superb motifs, this place of worship immediately invites visitors. Dragon statues and murals are visible on the temple's roofs and façades. The interior is adorned up to the ceiling. A golden statue of Buddha in the dhyāni-mudrā type is prominently displayed within its enclosure.

What to do in the city?

• Stroll through the peaceful streets of the city and mingle with its residents.
• Visit the Ban Sing Tha district and discover its picturesque architecture.
• Taste the specialties of the Isaan region in the small bistros of the city. Yasothon is renowned for its famous mango jam.
• During the dry season, picnic on the vast beaches of the Chi River.

Practical information

When to visit Yasothon?

Visit the city in May to experience the rocket festival. One downside is that the rainy season starts shortly after.

Another religious festival that animates the city in February or March is that of the garlands. Buddhists celebrate the return of Buddha to earth. Temples are decorated with garlands of rice adorned with flowers and beads.

How to get to the city?

Located in the eastern part of the Isaan region, Yasothon has the advantage of not being isolated. Traveling by bus is possible from the Mo Chit 2 bus terminal in Bangkok. Vehicles depart very early in the morning. It's worth noting that a 10-hour drive separates the city of angels from Yasothon.

The train route includes stops in neighboring provinces. From these locations, you can take a bus to Yasothon.

The city is 100 km from Ubon Ratchathani and its airport. Yasothon is connected to this metropolis by road networks.

How to get around Yasothon?

There's no shortage of transportation options in the city: songthaews, taxis, tuk-tuks, etc. Make sure to plan your route in advance. Google Maps and the internet are there to help you. Also, don't hesitate to negotiate fares; it's more economical.

You can also rent a car or a motorcycle for all your transportation needs.

Nearby attractions

Temples and places of worship

• Wat Si That, a shrine on stilts.
• Phra That Kong Khao Noi and its square stupa.
• Wat Lat Kao, the glass bottle temple.
• Wat Sa Trainurak and its original library.
• Wat Ku Chan and its precious relics.
• The Catholic church of Ban Song Yae is a construction made of solid wood in the Thai style.
• Wat Thung i Ok, the floating sanctuary.

Artisanal hamlet

• The pillow village of Ban Si Than.
• The bamboo basket villages of Ban Thung Nang Ok and Ban Na Samai.

Other

Phu Tham Phra cave and its monumental Buddha statues.