Exploring Satun: Street Art, Temples, and Coffee in Southern Thailand

It was my first visit to Satun downtown, a hidden gem in Southern Thailand, which offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and vibrant street art. Little did I know, known as the “Little Penang of Satun,” this charming town features stunning murals along Buriwanich Road and Satun Thani Road, showcasing local artistry and heritage. A walking tour through Satun reveals the unique Harmony Street, where the Masjid Mambang mosque, Po Jeh Geng Shrine, and Wat Chanathip Chaloem temple stand as symbols of the town’s multicultural harmony. Let me share with you my experience in discovering Satun’s treasures, from its captivating street art to the cozy Ban Rao Drip Coffee café and the historic Satun National Museum Kuden Mansion, makes for an unforgettable journey through one of Thailand’s most culturally diverse towns.

Discovering the Street Art of Satun
Satun offers a unique charm and vibrancy that’s perfect for a walking tour. One of the highlights of this tour is the incredible street art found along Buriwanich Road and Satun Thani Road, an area affectionately known as the “Little Penang of Satun.” The murals here are not just visually stunning but also rich in cultural significance. They depict scenes from its multicultural heritage, daily life, and historical events, blending traditional Thai art with modern street art techniques. Many visitors will discover ideal spots for taking photos with these captivating street art installations scattered throughout the town.

The Harmony Street
A short walk from the street art hub brought me to one of the most fascinating parts of Satun: Harmony Street. This aptly named street is a microcosm of Satun’s cultural diversity, featuring a mosque, a Chinese temple, and a Siamese temple all in close proximity, giving me a sense of familiarity, similar to the situation in Penang.

The Masjid Mambang, with its serene atmosphere and intricate designs, stands as a testament to the deep-rooted Islamic heritage in the region. A few steps away along Samanthapradit Road is the Po Jeh Geng Shrine, vibrant in colours, reflecting the long-standing Chinese community in Satun. Not far away, the Wat Chanathip Chaloem, with its distinct Thai architecture, adds another layer of cultural richness. Walking through Harmony Street, I was amazed by how these diverse religious and cultural landmarks coexisted so peacefully, showcasing Satun’s vibrant multicultural spirit.

A Coffee Break at Ban Rao Drip Coffee
After soaking in the cultural richness of Harmony Street, I found myself at Ban Rao Drip Coffee, a cozy café that’s perfect for a refreshing break. This café is a gem for coffee enthusiasts, offering a variety of drip coffee options, like americano, latte, cappuccino and many more.

The ambience of Ban Rao Drip Coffee is warm and inviting, with rustic décor and friendly staff. Sipping on a perfectly brewed cup of drip coffee, I took a moment to reflect on the blend of cultures I’d just experienced. I was impressed by how Satun, akin to Penang, flourishes with its multiculturalism, where each community enriches the town’s distinct character.

📍Ban Rao Drip Coffee
Sulakanukoon 1 Alley, Mueang Satun District, Satun 91000, Thailand
Operations hours: 6AM – 7PM (daily), 9AM – 7PM (Friday)

Satun National Museum (Kuden Mansion)
My walking tour concluded with a visit to the Satun National Museum, housed in the historic Kuden Mansion. The mansion was built Phraya Phumnatphakdi or Tunku Baharutdin Bin Tammahong (formerly Kuden Binkumae), the former governor of Satun, and was intended to be a royal residence during a royal visit of King Rama V to Southern Thailand. However, the king did not stay overnight here.

The mansion is currently used as a museum which exhibits range from ancient artifacts and traditional costumes to historical replicas and photographs. One of the most captivating displays is the section dedicated to the different ethnic groups and their houses that have shaped Satun’s history. As I wandered through the museum, I gained a deep sense of admiration for how Satun’s diverse cultural heritage has been intricately woven through the ages.

📍Satun National Museum
Satun Thani Rd, Phiman, Mueang Satun District, Satun 91000, Thailand
Operations hours: 9AM – 4PM daily (Closed on Monday & Tuesday)

Multicultural & Diversity
Exploring Satun on foot was a rewarding experience, revealing the town’s hidden gems and its harmonious multiculturalism. Just like Penang, Satun is a place where different cultures and religions coexist peacefully, enriching the community and creating a unique, vibrant atmosphere. Whether it’s through street art, historical landmarks, or a simple cup of coffee, Satun invites visitors to embrace and celebrate its diversity.

In conclusion, I find Satun is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination that offers a rich, multicultural experience that leaves a lasting impression. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to add Satun to your itinerary—you won’t be disappointed.