Family Cultural Adventure in Chiang Mai

Finding Peace and Art in Chiang Mai

Today was a beautiful blend of spiritual reflection and artistic discovery. Chiang Mai continues to surprise me with its hidden gems and the warmth of its people. Eleanor and Kenji were particularly excited about today's itinerary, and I was eager to share these experiences with them.

Our day began with a serene visit to Wat Suan Dok. I've always found temples to be places of immense peace, a sentiment that resonates deeply with my Japanese upbringing. The temple was founded in 1373, and walking through its grounds, one can feel the weight of history and spirituality.

As we entered Wat Suan Dok, the first thing that struck me was the sheer number of white chedis, each housing the remains of Chiang Mai's royal family. The large golden chedi, a central feature of the temple, shimmered in the morning light. Kenji was fascinated by the intricate designs and the stories Eleanor told him about the temple's history. The temple is known for housing a Buddha relic that split in two, with one part remaining there.

We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the murals and Buddha statues. I found a quiet spot to meditate, trying to center myself amidst the tranquility. Eleanor and Kenji wandered through the gardens, their laughter echoing softly against the ancient walls. Wat Suan Dok is also home to the Chiang Mai campus of Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University, a place of higher learning for monks and interested foreigners.

The beauty of Wat Suan Dok lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in the profound sense of peace it instills in every visitor.

One of the unique aspects of Wat Suan Dok is the opportunity to participate in Monk Chat. Though we didn't have time for a formal session today, we observed a group of tourists engaging with a monk, asking questions about Buddhism and Thai culture. It’s a wonderful initiative that fosters understanding and connection.


Discover the beauty and serenity of Wat Suan Dok, a stunning Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, rich in culture and tranquility.

After our peaceful morning at Wat Suan Dok, we headed to Baan Tawai Woodcarving Village, a place I had been particularly looking forward to visiting. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and artistry, I was eager to see what this village had to offer. Baan Tawai is about 12 kilometers southwest of the city center, and the drive itself was a pleasant experience, offering glimpses of rural Chiang Mai.

As we arrived at Baan Tawai, we were immediately immersed in a world of wood. The village is renowned for its woodcarving traditions, which have been passed down through generations. According to my research, it all began when Pho Naan Daeng Puntusa, Pho Jaima Inkaew, and Pho Huen Puntusart shared their skills with the village after training in wood carving in Chiang Mai.

The main street was lined with shops, each showcasing an array of wooden products. From intricate furniture to small decorative items, the variety was astounding. I was particularly impressed by the skill and artistry of the carvers. Many of the shops had workshops attached, allowing visitors to watch the artisans at work. Kenji was mesmerized by the process, watching as a craftsman transformed a simple block of wood into an elegant sculpture.

Eleanor and I took our time browsing the shops, admiring the craftsmanship and haggling for souvenirs. We purchased a small wooden elephant for Kenji and a beautifully carved panel for our home in Bristol. The prices were reasonable, and it felt good to support the local artisans.

We also explored some of the side streets, discovering hidden workshops and galleries. One of the highlights was the Song Fung Klong craft center, a modern art gallery showcasing creations by local and regional artists. The innovative designs and unique pieces were a refreshing contrast to the more traditional items found in the main shops.


Explore the artistic heart of Chiang Mai at Baan Tawai Woodcarving Village, where exquisite craftsmanship and rich Thai culture meet.

For lunch, we stopped at Bodhi Terrace. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing midday break. I enjoyed a flavorful Pad Thai, while Eleanor opted for a green curry. Kenji, as always, was happy with his plate of chicken and rice.


Discover the flavors of Thailand at Bodhi Terrace in Chiang Mai - an exquisite restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Baan Tawai, delving deeper into the maze of shops and workshops. I was fascinated by the different styles and techniques used by the carvers. Some specialized in traditional Thai motifs, while others experimented with more contemporary designs. I even saw a few workshops that incorporated other materials, such as lacquer and gold leaf, into their creations.

One of the things that struck me about Baan Tawai was the sense of community. The artisans seemed to take pride in their craft, and there was a palpable sense of camaraderie among them. It was clear that woodcarving was more than just a job; it was a way of life.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we made one last stop at Mainiji.Everyday Craft Shop. Eleanor had read about it online and was eager to see their collection of locally made crafts. The shop was a treasure trove of unique items, from clothing and accessories to home décor and souvenirs. We purchased a few small gifts for friends back home, knowing that they would appreciate the thoughtfulness and craftsmanship behind each item. Mainiji Everyday Craft Shop supports local artisans, and offers visitors a chance to take home a piece of Thailand’s artistic legacy.


Discover the charm of Thai craftsmanship at Mainiji Everyday Craft Shop, your go-to destination for unique clothing and accessories in Chiang Mai.

For dinner, we decided to try Jarid Thai Food | Fine Wines. The restaurant came highly recommended, and we were not disappointed. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. I savored every bite of my Massaman curry, while Eleanor raved about her Tom Yum soup. Kenji, once again, enjoyed a milder dish, carefully prepared to suit his palate.


Discover exquisite Thai cuisine paired with fine wines at Jarid Thai Food in Chiang Mai - a culinary gem not to be missed!

As we walked back to Hotel M Chiang Mai after dinner, I reflected on the day's experiences. Chiang Mai had once again exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion and relaxation. Wat Suan Dok had provided a much-needed dose of tranquility, while Baan Tawai had ignited my passion for craftsmanship and artistry.


Experience the charm of Chiang Mai at Hotel M, where modern comforts meet traditional Thai hospitality, just moments from cultural hotspots.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Wat Pha Lat and Wat Lok Moli, and perhaps unwind at the Crazy German Bar in the evening. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this beautiful city.

Before I end this entry, I must mention a couple of items I had forgotten to pack: a universal travel adapter and a portable power bank. These would have been incredibly useful, especially given my reliance on technology for navigation and communication. A lesson learned for future travels!

I feel very grateful for this journey with my family. Experiencing these incredible places together strengthens our bond and creates memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Until tomorrow,
Shota Tanaka