Discover and have a quick browse through Chinatown Bangkok
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History of Chinatown Bangkok
Chinatown Bangkok was once a wasteland, located outside the walls of the city. It was founded in 1782, when the city became the capital of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, and soon turned into a home for Teochew Chinese settlers. It now represents China's rich heritage and culture in Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha Nakhon).
How to reach Chinatown Bangkok
Chinatown Bangkok is conveniently located, and easily accessible from almost any part of the city. While originally it was centered around the area of Sampheng, the heart of this neon-lit neighborhood today lies along the bustling Yaowarat Road. It is approx. 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southeast of the Grand Palace, and 1.6 miles (2.5 km) south of Khao San Road.
While you can always book private and customized cab tours to Chinatown Bangkok on Trip.com, Bangkok Railway Station, also known as "Hua Lamphong Station" is nearby, and operates overhead Skytrains. You can also get on the MRT (subway) Blue Line, and reach Wat Mangkon Station, which is a 4-min walk from Chinatown.
From areas that are not close to Bangkok Railway Station or the subway, the cheapest option to reach Chinatown Bangkok is by bus.
Most tourists, however, prefer to onboard a passenger ferry across the Chao Phraya River, and get down at Ratchawong Pier ― which is an approx. 8-min walk from your destination.
10 Best Attractions in Chinatown Bangkok
There are a lot of popular attraction in Chinatown Bangkok including Chinatown Gate, Wat Traimit and Sampeng Lane Market. Let's explore Chinatown Bangkok!
Chinatown Gate
Chinatown Gate (Source: Jason Weingardt/Unsplash)
Picturesque and colorfully decorated, Chinatown Gate is located at the start of Yaowarat Road and marks the entrance to Chinatown Bangkok. Also known as "Odeon Gate," it represents the rich Chinese culture in Thailand, and is most visited during Chinese New Year.
- Built in 1999, the gate celebrates King Bhumibol of Thailand.
- Location: 322 Traimit Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong
Wat Traimit
Golden Buddha Temple
Also known as "Golden Buddha Temple," Wat Tarimit is one of the biggest draws of Chinatown Bangkok. Wat Tarimit features a 5.5-ton golden statue of Lord Buddha, surrounded by traditional golden arches, and is worth a whopping $250 million.
Not only is it located close to Chinatown Gate, but you can even spot it from the roof of the temple. It is also a convenient halt from or to the Hua Lamphong MRT Station.
- Location: 661 Charoen Krung Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong
Chinatown Bangkok at Night
Chinatown Bangkok
Chinatown Bangkok is big on street food ― one can always eat well here.
While the area is bustling with eateries and food carts throughout the day, it is in the evenings that the market truly comes to life. From mouth-watering dumplings and spicy noodles, you can bite into a range of flavors on your visit here.
Chinatown Bangkok is also known for serving some of the most unique dishes. Make sure to sample its famous exotic fruit salad, and oyster omelet. You'll also find fish ball soup, and homemade durian ice cream.
Trip.com offers amazing night-time tours to this dazzling neighborhood.
- Location: Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong
Crocodile Temple
The Crocodile Temple
Wat Chakrawatrachawat Woramahawihan is popularly known as "the Crocodile Temple." Built in the 19th century, the temple is inside a small complex, and a brisk 5-min walk from Yaowarat Road.
One of the best places to visit in Chinatown Bangkok, it is famous for the crocodiles that live here. It is said that these crocodiles ate young monks many years ago and have since then been enclosed in a pond within the temple.
- Location: Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, loosely translated as "Dragon Lotus Temple," is northwest of the Wat Mangkon MRT Station.
Once called "Wat Leng Noei Yi," it is the most sought-after Chinese Buddhist temple in the whole of Bangkok. It dates back to 1846, and boasts breathtaking age-old shrines, complete with red and gold Chinese artwork.
It draws hundreds of visitors during Chinese festivals, particularly on Chinese New Year and Chinese Vegetarian Festival.
Location: 423 Charoen Krung Road, Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai
Chao Phraya River
Chao Phraya River
Chinatown Bangkok is spread across the stunning Chao Phraya River. And one of the best ways to explore it is on a boat. Soak in impressive views, and spot historic buildings such as MAZU Shrine and Chee Chin Khor Temple ― both of which reside on the opposite side of this bustling neighborhood.
Flower Market
Flower market (Source: Daniel Spilka/Unsplash)
Pak Khlong Talat is commonly called the "Flower Market." It is nestled south of the Wat Pho Temple, and has a route that takes you to the river pier. It is the largest flower market in the city, and among the most fragrant locations in Chinatown Bangkok.
Tourists love to stroll around this rainbow-colored market and fill their carts with sweet-scented boutiques and temple offerings.
Location: Wang Burapha Phirom Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon District
Sampeng Lane Market
Sampeng Lane Market
Sampeng Lane Market is the most famous, and busiest shopping center of Chinatown Bangkok. Expect crowded, narrow lanes bustling with street vendors, roadside carts, and high-paced shopping. From Hello Kitty dolls to intricate Chinese handicrafts, this one is a paradise for budget shoppers.
It is also lined with roadside eateries, serving delectable Thai-Chinese fusion street food. Make sure to sample the famous mango sticky rice, and spicy pork dumplings.
Location: Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong
Guanyin Shrine
Guanyin Shrine
Located on the western banks of River Chao Phraya, Guanyin is among the oldest shrines in Thailand. It is home to a 900-year-old statue of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy called Guanyin. Unlike most shrines in the area, which are upright, this one is seated.
Adorned in wooden carvings and golden finishes, it is one of the most eye-catching attractions in Chinatown Bangkok.
Location: 582 Arun Amarin Road, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri
So Heng Tai
So Heng Tai (Source: Anansit Angsooksiri/Unsplash)
The So Heng Tai Mansion is Chinatown Bangkok's best-kept secret. Almost 200-years-old, this serene villa is tucked away in the of Talat Noi. It is an off-beat attraction you'll rarely find in commercial travel brochures.
The So Heng Tai Mansion is an age-stained villa with Chinese heritage and architecture, and is decorated with charming, bright lanterns.
While it now runs a diving school inside, there's a coffee shop and a museum next door, from where you can soak in its beauty.
Location: 282 Soi Wanit 2, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong
To make your trip more exquisite, book flight tickets on Trip.com, and stay at our recommended hotels in Chinatown Bangkok: ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, and Grand China Hotel (SHA Plus+) .
FAQ about Chinatown Bangkok
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Is Chinatown Bangkok worth visiting?
Chinatown Bangkok is a must-visit spot in Thailand, and offers an experience unlike any other. Tourists flock here for its neon-soaked markets, famous Chinese shrines, vibrant colors, and beautifully-lit alleys.
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What is Bangkok's Chinatown famous for?
While Chinatown Bangkok offers a wide range of activities and attractions, it is most famous for its delectable eateries and street food, along with its historic neighborhoods. It is especially visited during Chinese festivals, particularly on Chinese New Year.
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What is there to do in Chinatown at night?
Chinatown Bangkok is well-known for its late-night food stalls, and hipster nightlife. From bar-hopping to rooftop restaurants, it offers a plethora of options. The flower market here runs all day, and is a popular halt for tourists in the evenings.