Lotus flowers and the Memorial Bridge have become the latest props and backdrop for young Thais across social media platforms.
What was once simply a traditional bloom, used in religious rituals, has now become the hottest photo accessory among Gen Z.
The iconic Memorial Bridge, built almost a century ago, has quickly turned into a must-visit location for social media lovers.
The trend has also reinvigorated Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s historic flower market.
Once known as a wholesale hub, it is now buzzing with teenagers and young adults searching for the perfect bouquet for photoshoots.
Vendors say lotus sales have surged over the past two to three weeks after photos began going viral online.
Most of the lotus flowers come from Nakhon Pathom province, where they are currently in full bloom. Prices range from 30 to 100 baht per bunch, which are then arranged for picture-perfect shots.
In the evening, queues of people wait for their turn to take pictures, especially during the golden hour at sunset.
It is still unclear what sparked the lotus-and-bridge trend among young people.
Some link it to Lisa Manoban of the band Blackpink, who appeared as an ambassador for the Tourism Authority of Thailand and featured in a campaign with the Red Lotus Field in Udon Thani in the background.
Some admire the trend, saying that by choosing lotus flowers, Gen Z is not just chasing shallow beauty, but is embracing symbolism and reinterpreting cultural elements in a modern way.
For many, the lotus is no longer just an offering for monks and temples.
A social media page has even shared guidelines on how to prepare for the perfect photos.
It suggests preparing your hairstyle and accessories in advance to keep your hair in place, because it can get quite windy on the bridge.
Other tips include planning your floral arrangement, practicing poses and finding your best angles beforehand.
Other tips include planning your flowers ahead of time to avoid wasting time searching, as well as practising poses and finding your best angles beforehand.
Another page recommends taking the MRT to Sanam Chai Station (Exit 4 or 5), walking to Pak Khlong Talat to buy your flowers, and then heading to the bridge for sunset between 5 and 6pm.
The area offers scenic, romantic views, especially in the evening, it said.
