Baan Silapin (Artist's House)
Build a trip to Bangkok
About
Baan Silapin is a 200-year-old wooden house on the banks of a quiet canal, transformed into a community art space and gallery. It is one of the few places left where you can witness traditional Thai puppet theater performed by a local troupe. The sensory experience is nostalgic—the creak of old floorboards, the sight of local artists painting, and the smell of coffee by the water. It represents a slower, more artistic side of Bangkok life. Experts recommend checking the puppet show schedule (usually 2:00 PM) as it is the heart of the experience. Pro tip: Getting here is an adventure; take a long-tail boat from a major pier or a taxi to the nearby temple (Wat Khuhasawan) and walk through the charming local walkway along the canal.
Highlights
- Traditional Thai puppet shows
- Century-old wooden house
- Canalside artistic atmosphere
- Handicraft and art workshops
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
The Temple of Dawn rises dramatically from the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, its 79-meter-tall central prang tower encrusted with millions of fragments of Chinese porcelain and colorful glass that shimmer and sparkle in the sunlight, creating a uniquely Thai interpretation of a Khmer sacred mountain. Climbing the steep steps of the central tower to the inner terrace offers spectacular river views and intimate access to the intricate ceramic decorations up close, while the riverside location makes sunset and night photographs of the illuminated temple among the most beautiful images in all of Thailand. The ferry ride from Maharaj Pier across the river is part of the authentic Bangkok experience.
The Deck (Arun Residence)
The Deck is a romantic riverside restaurant famous for having the most perfect, unobstructed view of Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) directly across the river. The menu is a mix of Thai and international dishes, but the real draw is the atmosphere as the sun sets and the temple is illuminated in gold. The sensory experience is peaceful, with the sound of passing river boats and the cool evening breeze. Experts recommend the 'Amorosa' bar on the top floor for a pre-dinner cocktail. Practical pro tip: Window-side tables for sunset are often booked weeks in advance; if you can't get a reservation, try visiting for a late-night drink when the crowds have thinned and the temple is still lit.
Wat Prayoon
Wat Prayoon is famous for its massive white 'inverted bell' stupa, which won a UNESCO Award of Excellence for its meticulous restoration. Historically, it was built in 1828 and represents the early Rattanakosin architectural style. A unique sensory highlight is 'Turtle Mountain,' a miniature rock garden with spirit houses and a pond filled with hundreds of turtles that visitors can feed. The vibe is peaceful and distinctly 'local Thonburi.' Experts recommend climbing inside the main stupa to see the internal support structure and the small museum of ancient amulets. Pro tip: It is located near the foot of Memorial Bridge; walk across the bridge at sunset for a beautiful view before exploring the nearby diverse Kudeejeen community.
Wat Rakang Kositaram
Commonly known as the 'Temple of the Bells,' this riverside sanctuary gained fame during the reign of King Rama I when an ancient bell was discovered on the site. It was later the residence of Somdej Toh, one of Thailand's most revered monks. The atmosphere is traditional and lively, with the sound of bells of all sizes being rung by devotees to ensure their fame and good reputation. The library (Hor Trai) is a masterpiece of Ayutthaya-style woodcarving. Experts recommend the short ferry ride from Tha Chang pier to get there. Pro tip: Buy a small bucket of fish or a bird to release into the river/sky from the temple pier, a local merit-making ritual believed to bring freedom and good karma.
Reviews
Visited this place? Share your experience and help other travelers.