Ibrahim Jabbari
What you will find here are beautiful Chinese temples, Taoist places of learning and traditional Chinese medicine shops selling all sorts of fascinating remedies. The small alleys and streets between Yaowarat Road and the Chao Phraya River are crammed with market stalls and small shops jostling to sell just about everything imaginable; from hair accessories, tea sets, hardware and food, to fabric, strange vegetables imported from mainland China and Chinese funeral items.
Once crossing Chakraphek Road you will enter Pahurat – one of Chinatown’s premier attractions. Goods such as flip-flops, toys, household items, and herbs can be bought here. Within these first few blocks lie Pahurat’s textile-selling action, so choose one of the many small alleyways and dive into the heart of it all. Within, you’ll find a labyrinth of shops and vendors selling all kinds of colourful textiles. Chinatown in essence is like one big flea market.
How to get there
Formally called Pahurat, the Chinatown markets can be found off of Chakraphek Road, between Yaowarat Road and the Chao Phraya River. It’s easiest to get to Chinatown from the Chao Phraya River Express- get off at Ratchawong Pier.
What’s on sale
Dealing in gold? Yaowarat Road’s Hua Seng Heng is one of the best places in Bangkok to purchase gold as its reputation for reasonable prices and exceptional quality precedes it.
In addition, off of Yaowarat is Itsaraphap Lane, which has a delightful assortment of cooking spices- think nuts, herbs, etc. Then check out Klong Thom for vinatage goods like old game consoles, electronics, toys and vinyl.
What prices to expect
Get your bargain on in Chinatown, but also expect to pay some of the lowest prices that you will in Bangkok. Ask a local Thai what the appropriate prices are for items that you’re interested in and then start haggling. Chinatown is a stupendous deal for those looking to buy an assortment of goods for a home or shop.
Newbie tip
Take it easy! The Chinatown markets are expansive and can be overwhelming. Take time to admire the variety of goods that each shop offers and stop to get food at one of the delicious stalls. If you’re into tea or cooking, be sure to take home some authentic goodies.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
