If you’re visiting Phuket and think it’s all about beaches and island hopping, let me introduce you to a hidden gem that offers a completely different experience—Museum Phuket. I had the chance to visit this museum recently, and it turned out to be a fascinating journey through Phuket’s rich history and vibrant Peranakan culture.
A Bit of History
Museum Phuket is currently managed by Museum Siam and Phuket City Municipality. It’s housed in two historical buildings, each with its own story to tell. One of them used to be the Chartered Bank (1907-1911), and later in 1914, the building with the tower was built, which was initially a police station located just across the road. Over the years, these buildings served various purposes, including being the Phromthep Information Center and Nakorn Luang Thai Bank. Since 2018, they have been transformed into Museum Phuket, home to the “Phuketnagara-Peranakannitat” exhibition, which beautifully blends interactive activities and modern technology to showcase Phuket’s founding history and Peranakan heritage.
Walking Through Phuket’s Tin Mining Era
One of the highlights of the museum is its section on Phuket’s history as a tin mining town. Before tourism took over, tin mining was the backbone of Phuket’s economy, bringing prosperity and attracting people from different cultures. The exhibits display old photographs, mining equipment, and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse into this golden era. I found it amazing how this once-thriving industry shaped the island’s development.
The Mock Chartered Bank Safe Room
Stepping into the mock Chartered Bank safe room was another cool experience. It’s a small but intriguing exhibit that tells the story of the building’s original function as a bank. Walking into that safe room, surrounded by historical details, felt like stepping back in time. If you’re into old bank vaults and historical architecture, you’ll love this part.
Discovering Phuket’s Peranakan Culture
The museum also offers an immersive experience into the lives of the Peranakan community—descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in Phuket. This section explores their traditions, lifestyle, and cultural influence on the island, which reminded me of the Peranakan communities in Melaka and Penang. A fun part? You can try on traditional Peranakan costumes for photos! It’s a great way to bring home a unique memory of your visit.
Create Your Own Souvenir
Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by the souvenir corner (at the building with the tower), where you can create your own personalized keepsake. Choose a design like ang ku kuih, koi fish, or a dragon, and color it yourself. You can then turn your masterpiece into a keychain, fridge magnet, button, and more—all for just 20 THB each. It’s a fun and affordable way to bring home a piece of your Museum Phuket experience.
General Info
Museum Phuket is open from Tuesday to Sunday with different operating hours:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 8:30 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Best of all? It’s free entry!
📍Museum Phuket
Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Website: https://www.museumthailand.com/th/museum/Museum-Phuket
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Museumphuket
IG: www.instagram.com/museumphuket
Why You Should Visit
If you’re looking to dive deeper into Phuket’s past beyond the usual tourist spots, this museum is a must-visit. Whether you love history, enjoy interactive exhibits, or just want to explore something different, Museum Phuket has something for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the heat for a while and learn something new about this beautiful island.
So, the next time you’re in Phuket, make sure to add Museum Phuket to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!
dixonthum 