Bangkok: The Complete Guide

Visiting Bangkok is an exhilarating experience, with the city offering a vibrant mix of modernity and tradition. The streets are alive with energy, from the bustling markets and street vendors selling everything from spicy street food to handmade goods, to the towering skyscrapers and luxurious malls that line the skyline. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Wat Arun by the river or hopping on a tuk-tuk to zip through the city’s chaotic traffic, there’s always something happening. The city’s nightlife is equally captivating, with rooftop bars offering stunning views and nightclubs keeping the party going until dawn.

The food in Bangkok is a major highlight, where the fusion of flavors—from sweet and savory to sour and spicy—delivers an unforgettable culinary adventure. Street food stalls are a treasure trove of local delicacies like pad thai, som tam (papaya salad), and mango sticky rice. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River provides a scenic way to take in the city’s contrasting landscapes. Whether you’re indulging in a luxurious dinner or enjoying a casual meal by the water, Bangkok is a city that never slows down, constantly surprising you with its charm and energy at every turn.

History of Bangkok

The History of Bangkok: Origins and Early Development

Bangkok, known as Krung Thep in Thai, was officially founded in 1782 when King Rama I established it as the capital of Thailand, marking the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty. However, the area had already been an important trading post long before that, known as Bang Makok, which means “place of olive plums.” It was strategically located along the Chao Phraya River, which allowed it to flourish as a hub for trade and commerce. The city grew significantly under the rule of King Rama I, who moved the capital from the old city of Ayutthaya, which had been destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. He envisioned Bangkok as a royal city and fortified it with impressive walls and canals, some of which still exist today.

During the 19th century, Bangkok underwent a series of transformations under the reign of King Rama IV and King Rama V. King Rama IV, or King Mongkut, was instrumental in modernizing the city, introducing Western-style reforms in areas like education, government, and infrastructure. The reign of King Rama V saw the construction of important buildings and the establishment of modern institutions, including the first railways and hospitals. This period marked the start of Bangkok‘s growth into a modern metropolis, though it still retained much of its traditional cultural charm, including its Buddhist temples and royal palaces.

The History of Bangkok: 20th Century Growth and Modernization

By the early 20th century, Bangkok was rapidly evolving, transitioning from a quiet riverside city into a bustling urban center. The introduction of Western-style urban planning, including the construction of wide streets, bridges, and modern buildings, began to reshape the city’s landscape. However, despite the influx of modernity, Bangkok continued to preserve its cultural identity through its temples, festivals, and street markets. The establishment of a constitutional monarchy in 1932 further transformed the political and social landscape of the city, ushering in an era of modernization and political change.

In the second half of the 20th century, Bangkok experienced rapid urbanization, spurred by industrial growth and an increasing population. The rise of the Thai economy, along with the development of international trade and tourism, saw Bangkok become a key financial hub in Southeast Asia. The construction of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury hotels transformed the city’s skyline, while the expansion of public transportation networks like the Skytrain and the MRT allowed for greater mobility. Despite its rapid growth, Bangkok remains a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers sit alongside traditional wooden houses, and luxury shopping malls coexist with bustling street markets. Today, the city stands as a testament to the balance between its rich cultural heritage and its status as a dynamic global metropolis.

Visiting Bangkok for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Bangkok on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Bangkok not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Bangkok and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Wat Ratchanatdaram (Temple of the Royal Niece)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / กสิณธร ราชโอรส

Wat Ratchanatdaram is a Buddhist temple situated in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok. The name “Wat Ratchanatdaram” translates to “Temple of the Royal Niece.” This temple was commissioned by King Nangklao (Rama III) in 1846, specifically for his granddaughter, Princess Somanass Waddhanawathy. Wat Ratchanatdaram’s architectural centerpiece, Loha Prasat, means “iron castle” in Thai. It […]

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Location: Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan (Loha Prasat), Maha Chai Road, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 0.3km

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Visiting Wat Ratchanatdaram (Temple of the Royal Niece)

Explore Bangkok yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Wat Thepthidaram

CC BY-SA 4.0 / กสิณธร ราชโอรส

Wat Thepthidaram was constructed in 1836 by King Rama III to honor one of his wives. Reflecting the era’s fascination with Chinese culture, the temple features distinct Chinese-inspired decor, including gables adorned with Chinese porcelain and several ancient Chinese statues placed around the grounds. The temple’s main compound consists of the ordination hall (ubosot) surrounded […]

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Location: Wat Thepthidaram Worawihan (Wat Ban Phraya Krai Suan Luang), Maha Chai Road, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 0.4km

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Visiting Wat Thepthidaram

Click here to read our blog about Bangkok's Old Town: A Self-Guided Tour (with Maps!)

Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount) 

CC BY-SA 4.0 / กสิณธร ราชโอรส

Wat Saket, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, is one of Bangkok’s oldest and most iconic temples. Situated just outside the old Rattanakosin island, it dates back to the Ayutthaya period, originally called Wat Sakae. It was later restored and renamed by King Rama I, becoming Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan. […]

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Location: Wat Saket (The Golden Mount), Chakkraphatdi Phong Road, Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Price: 100 Baht for entry to the Golden Mount | Distance: 0.6km

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Visiting Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount) 

Bangkok Wat Suthat (Giant Swing)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Nawit science

The Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) is a striking religious structure and a prominent landmark in Bangkok, located in front of Wat Suthat. Painted in a vibrant Chinese-red, the swing has a storied history tied to an ancient Brahmanic ceremony. A Ceremonial Relic The swing was once central to the annual Triyampavai-Tripavai ceremony, part of […]

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Location: Wat Suthat Thep Wararam Ratchaworamahawihan, Bamrung Mueang Road, Wat Ratchabophit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 0.6km

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Visiting Bangkok Wat Suthat (Giant Swing)

Khaosan Road

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Kevin Poh

Khaosan Road, often referred to as “the place to disappear” or described as “a short road with the longest dream,” is a modest 410 meters long. Built in 1892 during the reign of King Rama V, its name, “Khaosan,” translates to “milled rice,” reflecting its history as a prominent rice trading hub. Over the past […]

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Location: Khaosan Road, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 0.6km

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Visiting Khaosan Road

Wat Ratchabophit

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Athichitra

Bangkok is renowned for its spectacular temples, and Wat Ratchabophit stands as a shining example of the city’s vibrant architectural diversity. Its colorful tiled roofs, golden spires, and soaring structures beautifully combine traditional Thai artistry with gilded Italian influences. Situated in the heart of the Phra Nakhon district, Wat Ratchabophit is an accessible and worthwhile […]

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Location: 3 Ratchabophit Rd, Khwaeng Wat Ratchabophit, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200,Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 0.9km

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Visiting Wat Ratchabophit

Sanam Luang

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Uthen Smantai

Sanam Luang, a renowned public open space in Bangkok, is situated in front of the and . Originally known as Thung Phra Men, this area served primarily as a royal cremation ground for kings, queens, and princes, a tradition that began during the reign of King Rama I. During King Rama III’s reign (1824–1851), amid […]

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Location: Sanam Luang, Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: 24 Hours | Distance: 0.9km

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Visiting Sanam Luang

Lak Mueang

CC BY-SA 4.0 / PEAK99

City pillars, or Lak Mueang, are a common feature in Thai cities, each housing a shrine dedicated to the city’s spirit deity, Chao Pho Lak Mueang. This tradition originates from an ancient Brahman ritual in which a single acacia pillar, known as Chaiyaphreuk (the “tree of victory”), was erected at the spiritual center of the […]

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Location: Bangkok City Pillar Shrine Lak Muang Rd Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon Bangkok 10200 Thailand | Distance: 0.9km

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Visiting Lak Mueang

Wat Ratchapradit

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.

Bangkok is home to an incredible array of intricately designed temples, and Wat Ratchabophit stands out as a masterpiece combining traditional Thai artistry with Western influences. Its colorful tiled roofs, golden spires, and ornate structures reflect the unique fusion of Thai and Italian architectural elements. Conveniently located in the Phra Nakhon district, this temple is […]

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Location: Wat Ratchapradit Sathit Maha Simaram Ratchaworawihan, Saranrom Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: 8am until 5pm | Price: Free entry | Distance: 1.0km

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Visiting Wat Ratchapradit

National Museum Bangkok

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Masgatotkaca

The National Museum Bangkok showcases Thai art and history dating back to the Neolithic era. Established in 1874 by King Rama V, it was the first public venue to display the royal collection of King Rama IV alongside other objects of general interest. The museum is housed in the 18th-century Wang Na Palace, the former […]

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Location: National Museum, Soi Na Phra That, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 1.0km

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Visiting National Museum Bangkok

Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)

Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. It holds the distinction of being one of the ten royal temples of the highest class, reflecting its importance in Thai religious and cultural life.The temple’s origins date back to the Ayutthaya period (1351–1767), where it was originally known as Wat Salak. When […]

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Location: Tha Suphan Alley, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand | Distance: 1.1km

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Visiting Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) 

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the grounds of the Royal Palace in Bangkok. It is the most revered Buddhist temple in Thailand, primarily due to housing the Emerald Buddha, a 2-foot-tall dark green statue considered sacred by the Thai people. The origins of the Emerald […]

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Location: Wat Phra Kaew, Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 1.1km

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Visiting Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) 

The Royal Grand Palace

The Royal Grand Palace in Bangkok was the official residence of Thai kings from the 18th century onward. King Rama I commissioned the construction of this majestic palace in 1782 when he moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. The area he selected was occupied by Chinese merchants, whom he relocated to make space for […]

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Location: The Grand Palace, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: Daily 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM | Price: Adults 500 baht | Website | Skip the Line | Distance: 1.3km

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Visiting The Royal Grand Palace

Sampeng Lane

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Vyacheslav Argenberg

Sampeng Lane Market, nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown, is a vibrant shopping destination teeming with energy and charm. By day, its narrow alleys overflow with vendors selling an eclectic array of goods, creating a lively and sometimes chaotic scene. The constant buzz of pedestrians, pushcarts, scooters, and trucks weaving through the market adds […]

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Location: Sampheng Market, Chakkrawat, Khet Samphanthawong Bangkok 10100 Thailand | Distance: 1.5km

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Visiting Sampeng Lane

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / KOSIN SUKHUM

Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is Bangkok’s oldest Buddhist temple and one of its largest. Situated just behind the grand Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho dates back nearly 200 years before Bangkok became the capital of Thailand. The temple is renowned for housing the massive Reclining Buddha […]

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Location: The Reclining Buddha Wat Pho Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon Bangkok 10200, Thailand | Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM | Price: Adults: 200 Thai Baht | Website | Distance: 1.5km

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Visiting Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Wat Chakrawat (The Crocodile Temple)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / CKasa

Wat Chakkrawat, also known by its full name Wat Chakkrawat Rachawat Woramahawihan , is a historic Buddhist monastery located in Bangkok’s Chinatown. Situated on the northwestern edge of the Samphanthawong district near the Chao Phraya River, it is a lesser-known yet culturally significant temple in the area, alongside the renowned Wat Traimit, which houses the […]

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Location: Wat Chakrawatrachawat Woramahawihan (Wat Sam Pluem), ถนน จักรวรรดิ Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 1.6km

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Visiting Wat Chakrawat (The Crocodile Temple)

Pak Khlong Talat

CC BY-SA 2.0 / eric molina

Bangkok Flower Market, locally known as Pak Khlong Talad, is the city’s largest wholesale and retail fresh flower market, offering a dazzling array of blooms at astonishingly low prices. Located in the Old City along Chak Phet Road near Saphan Phut (Memorial Bridge), this vibrant market is housed in 2- to 3-story shophouses lining both […]

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Location: Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market) - Wat Kanlayanamit Khwaeng Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon Bangkok 10200, Thailand | Hours: 24 Hours | Distance: 1.7km

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Visiting Pak Khlong Talat

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Dragon Lotus Temple)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chainwit.

Previously, and still commonly known as Wat Leng Noei Yi, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is Bangkok’s largest and most prominent Chinese Buddhist temple. The name “Dragon Lotus Temple” was later granted by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Established as a Mahayana Buddhist shrine around 1871 or 1872 (accounts vary), the temple is a stunning example of traditional […]

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Location: Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Wat Leng Noei Yi), ถนน เจริญกรุง Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 1.7km

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Visiting Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Dragon Lotus Temple)

Leng Buai Ia Shrine

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bangkok

Tucked away in the narrow alleys of Bangkok’s Chinatown, this Chinese shrine is regarded as the oldest in Thailand. A plaque inside the shrine bears an inscription dating its construction to 1658 during the Ayutthaya period. Originally designed in the Teochew style, the shrine likely served as a place where Chinese merchants sought blessings for […]

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Location: Leng Buai Ia Shrine, Soi Yaowarat 6, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 1.8km

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Visiting Leng Buai Ia Shrine

Chao Phraya River

Like all urban rivers, the history of the Chao Phraya is deeply intertwined with the city it nourishes. Early settlers were drawn to its fertile banks and abundant fish, making it an ideal site for settlement. After the fall of Ayutthaya to the Burmese, King Taksin relocated the capital to the western banks, in what […]

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Visiting Chao Phraya River

Thai Royal Barge Museum

CC BY-SA 2.0 / shankar s.

The Royal Barge Procession traces its origins back to the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom, where war vessels were first used for royal purposes. By the Ayutthaya period, these elegant barges became central to grand royal ceremonies, their striking formations gracing the rivers and canals of the island capital. A Global Symbol of Thai Culture The procession […]

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Location: Royal Barge Museum, Arun Amarin Road, Arun Amarin, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: 9am-5pm | Distance: 2.0km

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Visiting Thai Royal Barge Museum

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Locally known as Wat Chaeng, Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Situated on the Thonburi side (west bank) of the Chao Phraya River, it offers a stunning view, especially during sunset when the glittering spires of the temple light up against the evening sky. The temple, […]

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Location: Wat Arun, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Price: 50 Baht to enter the temple grounds. | Distance: 2.0km

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Visiting Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Yaowarat Road

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ninara

Once a humble poultry farm, this vibrant one-way street has transformed into the heart of Chinatown’s – and Thailand’s – gold trade. Over 100 gold dealers line the street, their shops adorned in gold and bright red for good fortune, showcasing dazzling displays of bracelets and necklaces. Here, gold is typically sold by the bàht […]

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Location: Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 2.1km

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Visiting Yaowarat Road

Kuan Yim Shrine

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.

The vibrant Kuan Yim Shrine, established during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), was built between 1903 and 1905 as part of the Thian Fa Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Chinese immigrants in 1902. Surrounding the shrine is a hospital that originally provided free traditional Chinese medical care to the underprivileged while the […]

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Location: Kuan Yim Shrine, Thian Fah Foundation, Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: Daily 7am-7pm. | Distance: 2.3km

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Visiting Kuan Yim Shrine

Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian Gratton

Located on the eastern edge of Chinatown, Wat Traimit Witthayaram is famously known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha. It houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, standing 3 meters (9.8 feet) tall and weighing an impressive 5.5 tonnes. This stunning masterpiece, crafted in the elegant Sukhothai style, reflects a luminous brilliance that […]

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Location: Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan, ถนน เจริญกรุง Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Hours: Daily 8am until 5pm The museum is open Tues-Sun from 8am until 5pm (Only the museum is closed on Mondays) | Price: 100 Baht per person for museum entrance + 40 Baht per person to view buddha image. | Distance: 2.4km

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Visiting Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha)

Bangkok Chinatown Gate

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Photogoddle

Erected in 1999 to commemorate King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 72nd birthday, the Chinatown Gate—also known as “Odean Gate” after the nearby Odean cinema—serves as a striking landmark at the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown. The inscription on the gate reads “Sheng Shou Wu Jiang”, meaning “Long Live the King.” During Chinese New Year, the gate becomes the […]

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Location: The Chinatown Gate, Tri Mit Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 2.5km

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Visiting Bangkok Chinatown Gate

So Heng Tai Mansion

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Peter Mardie

The So Heng Tai Mansion is a nineteenth-century Chinese courtyard house located in the historic Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok. Built by Phra Aphaiwanit (Chat) of the So clan (1813–1849), a Hokkien Chinese bird’s nest tax farmer from Fujian who later became part of the nobility under King Rama III, the mansion has remained in […]

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Location: So Heng Tai, Soi Wanit 2, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 2.8km

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Visiting So Heng Tai Mansion

Chatuchak Weekend Market

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bangkok

Known locally as JJ Market (after its official name, Chatuchak, which is pronounced with a “J” sound), this sprawling market is the largest of its kind in Asia and one of the biggest outdoor markets in the world, featuring over 15,000 stalls. Here, you’ll find an endless variety of items for sale, ranging from practical […]

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Location: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok, Thailand | Distance: 7.1km

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Visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market