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Places of interest #21 in Bangkok

Lhong 1919

4.2 · 7,276 reviews
Serene and culturally rich with a heritage aesthetic.
Lhong 1919, 248 Chiang Mai Rd, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Interesting facts
1

The mansion was originally established as 'Hui Seng' warehouse in 1850 by the Bisalbutr family before being acquired by the Wanglee family.

2

The onsite Mazu shrine houses a 19th-century statue of the Goddess of the Sea, brought from China by the founding families.

3

The complex was constructed using 'Sanheyuan' architecture, a traditional Chinese layout consisting of three buildings arranged in a U-shape around a central courtyard.

4

Restoration efforts uncovered original mural paintings hidden under decades of paint, which were carefully preserved to show Chinese folklore motifs.

5

Lhong 1919 served as a key port for cargo ships arriving from China during the reign of King Rama IV.

6

The name 'Lhong' refers to the historical term for a harbor warehouse used by Chinese merchants in Bangkok.

Overview

Lhong 1919 is a restored 19th-century Chinese merchant mansion located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Originally built by the Wanglee family as a riverfront warehouse and residence, the site showcases ornate wall paintings and traditional Hokkien-style architecture. The compound features a central Mazu shrine that has served as a spiritual center for Chinese immigrants for over 160 years. Following a major restoration that began in 2016, the site now serves as a multi-use heritage destination housing boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The structures are characterized by their exposed brickwork, wooden beams, and historical architectural detailing. It acts as a preservation project intended to maintain the historic link between Bangkok's trade history and the river.

Photo spot

The central courtyard facing the Mazu shrine, which perfectly frames the traditional Chinese architectural lines.

Insider tips

Walk through the central courtyard to see the intricate murals before visiting the shops.

Plan your visit to coincide with a river boat trip, as the site is accessible via its own pier.

Check local event calendars as the space frequently hosts pop-up art exhibitions and craft markets.

What to avoid

Avoid visiting during extreme mid-day heat, as the open-air courtyard offers limited shade.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful tone near the Mazu shrine; keep shoulders and knees covered out of respect for the religious site.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon to early evening, when the heat subsides and the riverside lights illuminate the architecture.
Address
Lhong 1919, 248 Chiang Mai Rd, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
13.734, 100.508
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleHokkien-style Sanheyuan
Key feature19th-century Mazu shrine

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon to early evening, when the heat subsides and the riverside lights illuminate the architecture..

The central courtyard facing the Mazu shrine, which perfectly frames the traditional Chinese architectural lines.

Close by you'll find Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan, The Grand Palace, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Wat Leng Noei Yi).