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Bangkok Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in the world. It is also, quite arguably, one of the best Chinatowns to visit as well. While many countries have Chinatowns, none compare to Bangkok’s; here you’ll discover what makes it so unique and a lot more about Bangkok’s history.

History

In the past, famine was forcing many people to migrate to Southeast Asia from southern China, and Thailand was a seemingly popular destination for these Chinese immigrants. They originally settled near where the Grand Palace is today. However, these immigrants were forced to move to Sampheng when the Grand Palace was built, and thus trade began to grow between the two countries. Every single day, more and more Chinese junk boats were bringing goods to Thailand and it was because of these boats that the Wat Yannawa, or the Boat Temple, was built during the Ayutthaya Era. The main road weaving through Bangkok’s Chinatown is Yaowarat Road, built in 1891. This 1.5-kilometer road is often referred to being dragon-like, weaving in and out of Chinatown’s historical neighborhood.

The Food

If you love seafood, then Chinatown is the place to be in Bangkok. Head to the famous Yaowarat Road after dark to find some of the best eats in the city. If you are not sure where to begin, just follow the crowd. If you see a herd of Thais eating at a certain stall, it is most likely because of the amazing food. Fai-Kaew Yao Wa-Rat is one seafood stall that draws in some of Bangkok’s biggest crowds. There are numerous dishes to choose from, including stir-fried crab and sweet and sour shrimp. The cook is a crowd pleaser, shooting flames high into the air while diners look on.

Chinatown is also well-known for its strange yet appetizing desserts. Two of our favorite desserts are the sesame dumplings with ginger tea and the bread rolls packed full with chocolate. These warm rolls are grilled to perfection before being filled with your choice of filling.

Kit Dale /

The Temples

Wat Traimit and Wat Mangkon Kamalawat are two temples found in Bangkok Chinatown. Wat Traimit, also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, houses the world’s largest gold statue. This statue is on the fourth floor of the temple, surrounded by beautiful Thai architecture. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is Bangkok’s largest Chinese-Buddhist temple, with roots that go all the back to 1872.

The Bars

If you are looking for a great view, then you have come to the right neighborhood. There are many bars, restaurants and hotels that offer great views of the Chao Phraya River and more. One of these bars is the Sky View 360° Restaurant, located on the top floor of the Grand China Hotel. The restaurant has live music every evening that compliments its panoramic view of the city and river. River View Guest House also has an amazing view of the river that customers can enjoy from its River Vibe Restaurant and Bar. We also suggest checking out El Chiringuito, a Spanish-inspired bar that serves up sangria, Spanish tapas and more.

Kit Dale /

Get Educated

Bangkok Chinatown receives most of its fame for its mouthwatering street food and renowned temples. In addition, there are also a handful of museums and exhibitions you can visit while exploring this part of town. The Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center has loads of information on how and why Chinese immigrants came to Bangkok and also has history on the Chinatown in Bangkok. The museum is found on the second floor of the Phra Maha Mondop, on the grounds of Wat Traimit, which houses the Golden Buddha. You can also visit the Phra Buddha Maha Suwanna Patimakorn Exhibition, also located in the same structure as the Golden Buddha.

Book a Tour of Bangkok Chinatown

Architectural Landmark

Blurred evening in Chinatown with famous street food in Thailand.
AofLine / Shutterstock

Like much of Bangkok, Chinatown can be a bit of a sensory overload for the uninitiated, so the best way to navigate the neighbourhood’s eclectic selection of independent shops, ancient temples and street food vendors is with the guidance of a local guide. Whether you want to hone in on the culinary experience or get a broader feel for Chinatown, there are plenty of group or private tours to choose from.

How to Get There

Bangkok Chinatown is not a compact neighborhood. Be sure to look into where it is you are going before heading to the historical neighborhood. That being said, the best way to get to the heart of Chinatown is to take the MRT subway to the Hua Lamphong stop. Take exit one and you will be a short walk from Wat Traimit. You will also be a short taxi ride from the other must-see destinations in Bangkok’s Chinatown.

Kit Dale /

8 Things You Must See or Do in Bangkok’s Chinatown

Consider this your checklist for any visit to Chinatown, according to our Bangkok expert Sarah Williams.

Wat Traimit

Building

Wat Traimit, Bangkok, Thailand
Federico Mata / Unsplash
Wat Traimit is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Bangkok’s Chinatown. This gleaming white building, topped with golden spires, houses the biggest solid gold Buddha statue in the world. Previously hidden under a thick layer of stucco, the statue’s religious and economic value was discovered purely by chance in 1955. The complex is also home to many other religious statues and the remains of the original ancient temple.

Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center

Museum

The modern Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center is a great place to learn about Chinatown’s heritage. It takes visitors on a fascinating journey from the Chinese migration to Siam (Thailand’s former name) right up to the present day. Old photographs show what Chinatown looked like in times gone by, providing snapshots into the everyday lives and struggles of the original migrants who called it home. Various artefacts and high-tech audio-visual displays breathe even more life into the past.

Zip along the busy streets in a tuk-tuk

Natural Feature

Candid of a Tuk Tuk driver in Bangkok, Thailand
Ryan Tang / Shutterstock

Chinatown’s streets are a hive of activity. The chipped and uneven pavements are often congested, with many obstacles to slow people down. Jump in a tuk-tuk for an exciting ride through the area. Relax in the back, far enough away from the chaotic jumble – yet still close enough to soak up the vibes and watch local life play out.

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat

Architectural Landmark

Chinese architecture temple of Wat Leng Noei Yi 2 or Wat Mangkon Kamalawat a giant chinese buddhist temple in downtown at Nonthaburi, Thailand
Mumemories / Shutterstock

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is the largest and most significant Chinese temple in Bangkok. Built in the early 1870s, it was originally called Wat Leng Noei Yi. Its present name means ‘Dragon Lotus Temple’. Constructed in a traditional Chinese style, several small shrines are dotted through the courtyard. Large warrior statues stand guard at the entrance. Inside, the main building features a large Chinese-style golden Buddha image and a busy altar where people come to pray and make merit.

Sala Chalermkrung

Theater

Originally a popular cinema, the historic Sala Chalermkrung now showcases beautiful traditional Thai dance performances. The theatre focuses on classical cultural shows, particularly khon. These are masked dance dramas based on stories from the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic of the Ramayana. Expect live music, narration and acrobatics.

China Gate

Architectural Landmark

The gate to chinatown in Yaowarat at night, Bangkok, Thailand. The words on the gate say Sheng Shou Wu Jiang which means Long Live the King
Mazur Travel / Shutterstock

The large, red China Gate is one of Chinatown’s most noticeable landmarks. It stands proudly at the end of the enclave, decorated with traditional motifs like flowers, dragons and animals. A fairly recent addition to the area, the gate was erected in 1999. The surrounding paved area has a number of colourful flower beds and Chinese statues. Many people come here to leave offerings, especially at major Chinese festivals.

Soak up the sweeping skyline views

Hotel

Located on the rooftop of the Grand China Hotel, Sky View 360 offers panoramic views over the City of Angels. The high-class restaurant is also proud to have been Bangkok’s first revolving restaurant; relax and enjoy delicious cuisine as the venue slowly completes one revolution per hour. If you’re impatient, simply stroll around the edges and peer out of the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Wander through lively markets

Market

Bangkok’s Chinatown is home to several bustling markets where you can fully immerse yourself in the local way of life. Bargain hunters should check out Sampaeng Lane Market with its wholesale prices and a huge range of cheap products. Just be careful not to get too lost in the myriad maze-like streets! Talad Noi (Little Market) is full of atmosphere and nostalgic charm. Talad Kao (Old Market) takes you back in time to Chinatown’s past. The market has been operating for several hundred years, with vendors supplying locals with a range of food products. Don’t be fooled by Talad Mai’s (New Market’s) name – it has been in operation for well over a century. The fresh market also sells an array of Chinese delicacies, crafts and cultural souvenirs.

About the author

Alongside being Commissioning Editor at Culture Trip, Andrew is an experienced journalist. His words have appeared in Explore Parts Unknown (CNN), Attitude and Alpine View. He has lived in the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. You can ideally find him on a tropical beach under a palm tree, cradling a rum-filled coconut with a tiny umbrella.

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