JEATH War Museum

The basics

You can explore the three galleries, which contain photos, letters, written accounts, interviews, artworks, personal effects, newspaper stories, weapons, and tools. There’s also an undetonated bomb on display, that was dropped on the Bridge over the River Kwai. It’s easy to visit the museum independently, though many tours of Kanchanaburi, including tours from Bangkok, stop there and at other World War II attractions and the Erawan Falls.

Things to know before you go

• The museum is ideal for history buffs, especially those interested in World War II.

• The Kanchanaburi World War II Museum near the Bridge over the River Kwai also uses JEATH on their signage, which can cause confusion.

• There’s a small admission fee to enter the museum.

• Photos are not permitted in the area where POW photos are displayed.

How to get there

The museum is located on the grounds of the Wat Chai Chumphon temple complex, west of central Kanchanaburi. It’s near the intersection of the Khwae Yai and Kwae Noi rivers, around 2.5 miles (4.5 kilometers) south of the Bridge over the River Kwai. It’s easily accessible by tuk tuk or songthaew (shared taxi). Many tours include a stop here.

When to get there

The museum is open daily from morning until early evening. Although it’s a small museum, there’s a lot of material presented, and you should leave enough time to have a detailed review and read the exhibits.

Other World War II attractions in Kanchanaburi

The Kanchanaburi region is home to several notable World War II attractions. Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Center to learn more about the Death Railway. It’s also possible to ride a portion of the railway, or walk across the Bridge over the River Kwai. You can also pay your respects at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (also known as the Don Rak War Cemetery), Chong Kai Allied War Cemetery, and the Hellfire Pass Memorial and Museum.