This more than 200-year-old teak house is still standing today largely thanks to one man, Thai artist Chumpon Agapantanon. His idea was to create a cultural centre for the local community on the Khlong Bang Luang, on the west side of the Chao Phraya.

He set up a studio and a small gallery upstairs.

A place where local artists in particular can exhibit and sell their work. But there was something else that mattered even more to him.

Children from the community were to have the opportunity to discover and develop their creative abilities here. That’s why regular workshops have been held since it opened in 2010, including painting, making small calendars, and decorating ceramics and masks. What I particularly like about this house is that it’s not just a place for tourists.

The house itself is beautifully situated right by the canal, and there’s also a small café there. It’s a place for the people who live here.

In the evenings, neighbors get together to talk about projects in the area or discuss them with city representatives. For me, it’s an exceptional cultural project—one that truly strengthens the community.

Over time, more and more visitors discovered this special place, of course. The range of activities expanded. Today, for example, you can make pearl jewellery, decorate phone cases or work with clay there. These creative activities are now available not only on weekends, but also on many weekdays. Even so, the place has retained its character, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

A real highlight is the traditional puppet theater performance. The stories are drawn from the country's myths.



Three performers dressed in black operate large, intricately crafted puppets on long poles. Once you’ve seen it, you’ll quickly realize how much skill and precision it takes. Performances used to be held regularly on weekends

Now they can only be booked by groups. But give it a try: call and ask if there’s a way to join.

Despite its popularity, Baan Silapin hasn’t become just another tourist attraction. It still thrives on its connection with the local neighbourhood. Even if you want to join a workshop, you can almost always find a little spot right by the canal.

You can paint there while watching the colorful longtail boats slowly glide by. For me, though, the real magic of this place lies above all in its setting. Khlong Bang Luang is one of Bangkok’s most beautiful canals.

It also offers a glimpse of the city’s past. You can take a canal tour from here, too—about an hour by longtail boat. Along the way, you’ll see houses and gardens that can still only be reached by water, as was once common in Bangkok.

One of the most beautiful routes from here leads to the impressive golden Buddha at Wat Paknam.

If you’re planning to visit Baan Silapin, the time of day makes a difference. It’s best to go in the morning, when it’s still quiet and the light on the canal is especially beautiful.

Or visit in the late afternoon, when the biggest crowds have already gone, and you may get the best sense of what makes this place special.

Peace, creativity and a slice of authentic Bangkok.