For many hundreds of years Chinese merchants plied the waters around Thailand and left people and markings to indicate their adventures. Here in Koh Chang there is a Chinese temple on the top of one of the hills currently maintained by the descendants of those traders and new Chinese descendants on and around the island.
In general they are very ornate with all different kinds of animals, especially dragons, and are extremely photogenic.
This island, Koh Chang, derives the name from the shape, similar to an elephant. So at the entrance to the temple you see different elephant decorations.
Various decorations Similar to gates were entrances amplify the significance of ocean views and the importance of the ocean to trade.
At the entrance to the main shrines you often find offerings to the spirits or Representations of important people.
Inside the main shrine there are always overwhelming decorations.
On the grounds you find a variety of small tributary images.
Of course there needs to be some firecracker Launching sites.
As you round the Main shrine corner you might be startled by an emerging dragon. And near the entrance the eyes of the dragon or upon you.
Even if just for the bright colors I like visiting these Chinese shrines and temples.