Must-visit attractions in Chiang Mai: the stunning White Temple and Black House

Text & Photos /Matcha Tuna Egg

I remember seeing a series of photos of Xu Jiao titled “Traveling in Hanfu,” where she chose Wat Rong Khun (also known as the White Temple or the Temple of Light) in Thailand as her shooting location. I’ve always wanted to see it in person—how dazzlingly beautiful the White Temple looks under the sun. This time, during my trip to Chiang Mai, I finally got the chance to visit the White Temple, so let me show you just how radiant it is in the sunlight.

The White Temple is located in Chiang Rai, about a 2–3 hour drive from downtown Chiang Mai. Its unique color and materials set it apart from other temples in Thailand, which is why so many tourists come here just to witness its distinct beauty.

After walking past trees hung with white human-skull decorations and purchasing your ticket at the entrance, you’ll queue up to enter the stunning White Temple. The entire structure features pure white walls adorned with silver mirrors that reflect brilliant light under the sun.

The most intriguing concept of the White Temple, in my opinion, is that the area in front of the temple represents hell, while the area behind symbolizes heaven. So when you cross the Bridge of Hell, you can’t turn back—otherwise, your soul won’t make it to heaven.

Whether this is a local legend designed to encourage visitors to move through the temple quickly or not, it’s definitely an interesting story. But after passing through the dazzling front area and the main hall (where you must remove your shoes)...

you’ll see the minimalist design of the heavenly area... and suddenly think, “No wonder there are so many people in hell… because everyone wants to live in a beautiful place, right?”

It wasn’t until I visited in person that I learned the White Temple is still under construction, with many parts still being expanded. However, essential facilities such as restrooms and the wishing board area (as shown above) are already well-developed. I particularly love the wishing board area—it looks just like a Christmas tree. It’s festive, beautiful, and really creative in both concept and design.

White Temple '1#H-8H 1+'1@ 5"#2"
Address: San Sai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Phone: +66 53673579

Next, we head to the Black House Museum. Known locally as the “Black Temple,” the Black House Museum is actually the former residence of artist Thawan Duchanee. After his passing two years ago, his home was turned into a museum, preserving his artworks for visitors to admire.

The Black House Museum is decorated mainly with teak wood and black paint. It houses numerous items reminiscent of death, which is why locals often compare it to hell. Coupled with its temple-like appearance, it's referred to as the “Black Temple” in contrast to the “White Temple.”

The main house contains many collectibles the artist gathered from around the world, as well as his own artworks. There are also guides who help visitors find the best angles and lighting to take great photos. It’s a truly engaging, professional, and fun experience.

The Black House Museum covers a large area, and it takes at least an hour to explore it all. Walking around made me envious of how spacious the artist’s home was. Unlike young people in Taiwan who struggle to buy even a small place... sob sob sob (tears streaming).

Back to the point—because the museum is so expansive, the grounds also have some freely roaming ponies and dogs, adding variety to your photo ops. After all, buildings can only be photographed in so many ways... a bit of life always helps.

One of the most surprising displays is this: at first glance, these two objects on the table, shaped suspiciously like... well, you know, might make you think of Southeast Asian phallic worship artifacts. But nope—according to the guide, they’re actually coconut scrapers and deseeding tools. LOL—those who jump to conclusions, look what the internet has done to you.

Black House Museum Baandam (Thawan Duchanee) Museum
Address: 414 Moo 13 Nanglae, Muang, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand.
Phone: +66 53705834, +66 53776333, +66 816731155

Matcha Tuna Egg

Always on the lookout for fun and unique things
Wherever there’s an interesting attraction, you’ll find me there
I love sharing cool places and delicious food with everyone.
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