The Bangkok Corrections Museum offers a fascinating and sometimes unsettling look into the history of imprisonment, punishment and the development of Thailand’s correctional system. Now located in Nonthaburi, the museum was officially opened at its new location in May 2023, replacing the former museum in Bangkok.
I photographed the exhibits simply for work—almost as an afterthought—and wasn’t really planning to publish what I considered rather sloppy work of mine. But, anyhow, here they are.
The photographs cover the museum’s buildings, displays, historical artefacts and the visual details that help tell the story of Thailand’s prison system. From old restraint and punishment devices to reconstructed prison environments and exhibits documenting the changing philosophy of corrections, there is plenty here to interest photographers drawn to Thai history, architecture, documentary photography and unusual places in Bangkok and Nonthaburi.
The museum is particularly interesting because it presents not simply the history of punishment, but also the evolution towards rehabilitation, vocational training, and returning former prisoners to society.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours:
08:30–16:30, Tuesday–Sunday. Closed Mondays. Current visitor information confirms these hours.
Entrance Fee:
Free of charge.
Dress Code:
There is no specific published dress code, but modest, respectful clothing is recommended. As the museum is operated by the Department of Corrections, visitors should dress appropriately and behave respectfully throughout the complex.
Location:
77/1 Correctional Staff Training Institute, Nonthaburi 1 Road, Suan Yai, Mueang Nonthaburi, Nonthaburi 11000. The museum is within the Department of Corrections complex, close to the Chao Phraya River and opposite Bang Kwang Central Prison.
Getting There:
By car or taxi, the museum is easily reached via Nonthaburi 1 Road, with parking available at the complex.
For public transport, the MRT Purple Line is the most useful rail connection. MRT Yaek Tiwanon (PP13) is one of the nearby stations, although a taxi or motorcycle taxi is recommended for the final section of the journey.
A highly recommended way to arrive there is by Chao Phraya Express Boat, from downtown Bangkok you can take the Orange, Yellow, Green, Red flag boats to Nonthaburi Pier, the fair is Baht 18 to 50 per person. From the pier you walk the 800 meters to the museum, or take a Blue Mazda Cab.
Photography Tips:
This is an excellent location for documentary and architectural photography. Look beyond the major exhibits for details such as old doors, locks, bars, corridors, signage, textures and the architecture of the buildings. The exhibits concerning historical punishment can be disturbing, so photographing them with a documentary rather than sensational approach works particularly well.
Always observe any no-photography signs and follow instructions from museum staff. Avoid photographing staff or visitors without permission.
Recommended Visit Duration:
1–2 hours. This allows enough time to explore the principal exhibitions and photograph the buildings and displays without rushing.