Ban Bo Suak Kiln Site and Glazed Ceramics

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 17.00

 

Ban Bo Suak Kiln Site and Glazed Ceramics in Ban Bo Suak Phatthana, Moo 10, Bo Suak Subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province, is one of Nan’s most important community archaeological sites. In the past, this area was a major production center for glazed ceramics and earthenware with its own distinctive techniques, forms, and firing methods. Today, visitors can see ancient kilns, local archaeological exhibits, and the story of Nan’s ceramic heritage.

 

Ban Bo Suak was once an important ceramic production site of historic Nan. Its glazed pottery had a unique local character, reflecting the knowledge of clay preparation, kiln construction, firing control, and ceramic glazing developed by Nan artisans. The significance of Bo Suak ceramics extended beyond Nan, as similar wares have been found in ancient burial sites in mountain areas of Omkoi District in Chiang Mai, continuing toward Tak and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. This indicates that Bo Suak ceramics were widely used and circulated through regional exchange networks.

 

The production of glazed ceramics at Ban Bo Suak is believed to have developed during the reign of Chao Phraya Phon Thep Rue Chai, between 1528 and 1559, a prosperous period in Nan’s history. Ceramic and kiln technology in Nan was influenced by kiln groups near Chiang Mai, especially San Kamphaeng and Kalong, before developing into Bo Suak’s own local style. The site therefore provides important evidence of technological exchange within the Lanna cultural region.

 

The Ban Bo Suak kiln site was surveyed and studied by the Archaeology Division of the Fine Arts Department beginning in 1984. Later, kilns were found in the residential area of Police Senior Sergeant Major Manat and Khun Sunan Tikham in Ban Bo Suak Phatthana, Moo 10, Bo Suak Subdistrict. The kilns face the river, which made transportation easier in the past. Inside, the kiln chamber is large enough for people to enter, with a sloped structure and an upper ventilation chimney designed to control heat and airflow during firing.

 

Today, some ancient kilns have been restored and protected by permanent shelters. Under the house area, a small exhibition displays archaeological objects from the kiln site, including pottery fragments, glazed ceramics, kiln remains, and materials related to the old way of life in Ban Bo Suak. Visitors can learn not only about kiln construction and ceramic production but also about the social and cultural background of a historic craft community in Nan.

 

One of the most valuable aspects of Ban Bo Suak is its role as a living community museum. The archaeological remains are not isolated from local life; instead, they are presented through houses, local residents, and community memory. A visit here allows travelers to understand Nan’s history at a local level, beyond the better-known temples and old city landmarks.

 

The wider Bo Suak community also continues to preserve pottery knowledge through local ceramic groups. Visitors can explore contemporary pottery products, learn how traditional knowledge has been adapted for community income, and see how ancient craft heritage continues to support local identity.

 

Getting There is convenient from Nan town. The kiln site is about 17 km from the city center and can be reached by private car, rental car, or local chartered transport. It is suitable for a half-day cultural route combined with Wat Phumin, Nan National Museum, Wat Phra That Chae Haeng, Nan Walking Street, and other attractions in Mueang Nan District.

 

 

A: It is located in Ban Bo Suak Phatthana, Moo 10, Bo Suak Subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, about 17 km from Nan town.

 

A: It was an important glazed ceramic production site of historic Nan and provides evidence of Lanna ceramic technology.

 

A: The site is open daily from 08.00 to 17.00.

 

A: No. Admission is free.

 

A: The kilns face the river, have large internal chambers, sloped structures, and upper ventilation chimneys designed for ceramic firing.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Wat Phumin, Nan National Museum, Wat Phra That Chae Haeng, Nan Walking Street, and Wat Phra That Khao Noi.