Bangkok Dolls Museum and International Dolls
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Open Days: Monday – Saturday (Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays) (Please call to confirm before visiting)
Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (Hours may change depending on work schedules/appointments; please contact before your visit)
 
Bangkok Dolls Museum and International Dolls is one of Bangkok’s craft-focused spots that gently reminds you that a “doll” isn’t only a toy or a collectible—it can be an art form that carries Thai stories onto an international stage. The place was created to seriously develop and share Thai dolls, and it has grown into both an exhibition space and a working workshop, where the charm of handmade craftsmanship still shows in every step.
 
The museum is located at No. 85, Soi Yaek Ratchaphan (Soi Mor Leng), Ratchaprarop Road, in the Phaya Thai – Pratunam area. It’s a convenient base for city explorers: you can easily plan it as a half-day visit, then continue to nearby shopping areas or museums without needing to switch zones far away.
 
Bangkok Dolls was founded by Khun Ying Thongkon Chanthawimon in 1956. After studying doll-making in Japan, she returned to develop distinctly Thai dolls with recognizable details—costumes, facial features, proportions, and fine finishing—that international visitors can instantly associate with Thai culture. What makes this place special is that it was never meant to produce simple souvenirs. Instead, the dolls become small, tangible representations of Thai life, ceremonies, and traditional aesthetics.
 
As you explore, you’ll see that Thai doll-making involves layered skills: sculpting, sewing, costume design, and the tiny finishing touches that give each character a clear personality. The collection includes several types, such as Khon dolls, dolls representing various hill-tribe communities, dolls depicting rural Thai life, and miniature Khon masks. Each piece isn’t just visually beautiful—it also reflects social roles, occupations, traditions, and the diversity of people and cultures in Thailand.
 
Another highlight is the “International Dolls” room, featuring around 400 dolls collected from around the world over many years. It’s a great way to compare how different cultures express identity through dolls—from clothing and materials to techniques and proportions that mirror local tastes and beliefs.
 
To make the most of your visit, plan at least 45–90 minutes. If you enjoy close-up details, it’s easy to spend longer because many pieces look lovely from a distance, but the craftsmanship becomes truly impressive when you step closer. Since this is a real working space as well as an exhibition area, calling ahead helps everything go smoothly and often makes the experience more complete than dropping by at a random time.
 
Getting There If you’re using public transport, a convenient option is taking the BTS to Phaya Thai Station, then continuing by taxi or motorbike taxi to Ratchaprarop Road and Soi Mor Leng using your map app. If you’re driving, allow extra time for traffic and parking, as the Ratchaprarop – Pratunam area can get very busy, especially during morning and evening peak hours.
 
After visiting Bangkok Dolls, it’s easy to continue your day with museums, shopping, or food. Nearby you’ll find smaller historical spots that are pleasant to stroll through, plus the Pratunam district where restaurants and shopping malls cluster together—making it easy to balance “culture + city” in a single day.
 
Name
Bangkok Dolls Museum and International Dolls (Bangkok Dolls Museum)
Zone/Area
Ratchaprarop – Phaya Thai – Pratunam (Ratchathewi District)
Location
No. 85, Soi Yaek Ratchaphan (Soi Mor Leng), Ratchaprarop Road, Bangkok
Characteristics
A museum of Thai dolls and international dolls with an on-site handmade workshop, showcasing Thai craftsmanship and cultural identity through dolls
Period
Founded in 1956
Key Evidence
Thai dolls in multiple types (e.g., Khon dolls, hill-tribe dolls, rural life dolls, and miniature Khon masks)
An international doll collection of approximately 400 dolls
Name Origin
The name suggests a “home of Bangkok dolls” and a place that shares Thai doll craftsmanship with international audiences
Facilities
Exhibition rooms/showroom, workshop area (subject to on-site rules), parking area (depending on actual space and conditions)
Fees
Free admission (Please contact before visiting)
Current Status
Generally open during stated days/hours; calling ahead is recommended, especially for group visits
Contact Number
02-245-3008
Travel
BTS: Phaya Thai Station, then taxi/motorbike taxi to Soi Mor Leng (use map navigation)
Car: Use Ratchaprarop Road, then turn into Soi Mor Leng; allow extra time for traffic and parking
Nearby Attractions (Approx. Real-Route Distance)
Suan Pakkad Palace Museum – 1.4 km
Victory Monument – 2.6 km
Pratunam Market – 2.7 km
Baiyoke Sky Tower – 2.9 km
Jim Thompson House Museum – 3.9 km
Popular Restaurants Nearby (Approx. Real-Route Distance + Phone)
Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice – 2.8 km – 02-251-5299
Kuang Heng Pratunam Chicken Rice – 2.9 km – 02-251-8768
P’Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle – 3.7 km – 02-612-9013
Saxophone Pub & Restaurant – 3.0 km – 02-246-5472
Cafe 9 (Centara Watergate Pavilion Hotel) – 2.6 km – 02-625-1234
Popular Accommodations Nearby (Approx. Real-Route Distance + Phone)
Pullman Bangkok King Power – 3.0 km – 02-680-9999
VIE Hotel Bangkok, MGallery – 3.7 km – 02-309-3939
Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam – 3.1 km – 02-209-1700
Centara Watergate Pavilion Hotel Bangkok – 2.6 km – 02-625-1234
Baiyoke Sky Hotel – 3.0 km – 02-656-3000
 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which days is Bangkok Dolls open, and what time does it open?
A: It is generally open Monday – Saturday from 08:00 – 17:00, and closed on Sundays and public holidays. Please call to confirm before visiting.
 
Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Admission is generally free, but it’s recommended to contact the venue in advance because it is a working workshop as well as an exhibition space.
 
Q: Is it suitable for children?
A: Yes, especially for kids interested in arts and crafts. However, adults should supervise closely and avoid touching delicate items unless permitted.
 
Q: Is it convenient to visit by BTS?
A: Yes. Take the BTS to Phaya Thai Station, then continue by taxi or motorbike taxi to Ratchaprarop Road and Soi Mor Leng using map navigation.
 
Q: How much time should I plan for the visit?
A: Plan around 45–90 minutes. If you like close-up details or want to browse collectibles, you may spend longer.
TelTel: 022453008, 022454532
 Bangkok Dolls Museum and International Dolls Map
Museums Group: Museums
Last UpdateLast Update: 1 WeekAgo


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