The Siam hotel in Bangkok has opened up a space dedicated to the Thai tradition of the sacred art of Sak Yant tattoos – a traditional form of tattooing magical ancient geometric and deity symbols with Buddhist prayers, designed to impart powers for luck, protection, charisma, fortune and other powers onto the wearer.

The Siam has built a specialist Sak Yant studio within its Opium Spa, headed by master tattooist Arjan Boo, who was trained in the traditional art by an abbot at the Buddhist temple of Wat Bang Phra, the prime pilgrimage spot for those who want to have their body adorned with spiritual Sak Yant ink designs.

The 2,000-year-old tradition, which is thought to have originated in ancient Cambodia, has seen it designs grow in popularity throughout South East Asia; tattoos can only be administered by specially-trained practitioners.

Sak Yant tattoos run the gamut from ancient geometric sigils to vivid animal or magical deity figures, which have evolved into Brahmanist and Buddhist prayers.

After the tattoo has been applied, guests will be brought to Wat Bang Phra, a traditional temple about an hour outside of Bangkok, to have their body art blessed.