Famous ‘haunted’ sites in Thailand
Wat Mahabut : Nestled within the serene temple
complex is the Mae Nak Phra Khanong shrine, which is renowned for
hosting a captivating Thai ghost legend.
Ratchaprasong Intersection: At the heart of
bustling downtown Bangkok, the Ratchaprasong Intersection is adorned
with eight Hindu shrines, including the iconic Erawan Shrine. This
vibrant area serves as a popular tourist hub, featuring world-class
shopping centres.
Sathorn Unique Tower: This unfinished skyscraper by
Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River stands as a haunting reminder of the 1997
financial crisis. The intriguing tale of this abandoned skyscraper was
transformed into the 2017 film "The Promise."
In an innovative twist on tourism marketing, the Tourism Authority of
Thailand (TAT) is embracing the supernatural to promote the country as a
destination.
Through an engaging storytelling approach, TAT, in collaboration with
Yggdrazil Group, creators of the Home Sweet Home series of games, and
Ogilvy (Thailand), has launched a new online battle game, Home Sweet
Home: Online.
The Home Sweet Home game series is a horror adventure that immerses
players in Thai beliefs, folklore, superstitions, and cultural objects,
like talismans, guiding them through a thrilling journey into Thailand's
deep superstition and folklore culture.
Players confront ghosts, evade evil spirits, and solve puzzles while
exploring real locations in Thailand, including Phimai Historical Park
in Nakhon Ratchasima, Khum Khun Phaen (a sample of an ancient Thai-style
house) in Suphan Buri, and Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Yala.
This unique marketing strategy aims to attract a global audience,
particularly Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and native digitals, and inspire them to
consider Thailand as a cultural and spiritual travel destination.
By supporting the launch of the latest edition [of Home Sweet Home game series], we aim to inspire players to turn their in-game experience into an actual cultural and spiritual trip to Thailand.– Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor for digital research and development, TAT
Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor for digital research and development
at TAT, shared, “We recognise the appeal of the horror-adventure Home
Sweet Home game series among global tech-savvy people, gamers, and the
superstitious in its storytelling that leverages Thai mythology, beliefs
and deep culture. By supporting the launch of the latest edition, we
aim to inspire players to turn their in-game experience into an actual
cultural and spiritual trip to Thailand.”
The Home Sweet Home: Online project aligns with TAT's broader
strategy to leverage technology and innovation for Smart Tourism,
further enhancing the allure of Thai tourism.
Through this initiative, TAT anticipates significant interest, with
an expected 500,000 players and at least 900,000 people-time of
increased awareness about Thai tourism, showcasing the nation's unique
cultural offerings.