Formerly called Wat Pa Yia (bamboo forest), this is where the Emerald Buddha image was found.  Thus the name of the temple was derived.

On 21 Oct 1990, Buddhist clerics and laity agreed to build the Jade Buddha (commonly called Phra Yok Chiang Rai) to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Princess Mother's birthday.  The Buddha image was officially name Phra Phuttha Rattanakonnawuttiwatsanuson Mongkhon, which means the Buddha who is the source of gems.

In the main prayer hall tands a huge bronze Buddha image in the posture of "sub-duing mara, or demon".  This is commonly known as Phra-Chao Lan Thong in Chiang Rai.  It was transferred from Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong to this temple in 1961.  The main hall itself was built in 1960 in the neo-Lanna style with double-tiered roof decorates with colored glass along the eaves and the beams.  The front portal posts and gable are decorated with intricate golden patterns.  The doors are showpieces of northern wood-carving techniques.