In Thailand, a miniature house called a “spirit house” (slan-pr-poom) is put in front of all houses, blocks of flats, hotels, etc., at roadsides, at the foot of sacred trees, and in any spot thought likely to be inhabited by spirits (pee). It is intended to house the tutelary spirits of the place, who are symbolized by small statuettes. Offerings of food, flowers, and incense are made to them every morning. In exchange, these guardian spirits watch over the prosperity and well-being of the inhabitants of the place. They prevent homeless bad spirits (pe-rderôn) from installing themselves there.

This practice is only one of the many manifestations of animism in Thailand. Before the arrival of Buddhism, animism was the dominant religious belief in the area that is now
Thailand. Since Buddhism became established, the two have contrived to cohabit harmoniously at the level of local religious beliefs and practices. There are even monks who specialize in divination and magic.