Phuket Old Town
Early in the 1800s, Phuket was the center for tin mining, attracting immigrants from all over the world including China and Malaysia. The influence on the architecture and culture of these immigrants can be seen in Phuket Old Town. They built various structures—temples, houses and shops—based on the designs of their home country. Walking around town, you can see brightly colored buildings based on Sino-Portuguese architecture. A great way to learn about the history of this area is by visiting the Chinpracha House., which is a private home from 1903 in the Sino-Portuguese style (be sure to ask the owner for a tour).
