Chinatown, Bangkok is always a colorful, exotic and busy area, packed with market stalls and probably the greatest concentration of gold shops in the city. The Chinese community, relocated here from Rattanakosin (Old City) in the 1700’s, still continue their own traditions and religious practices, and the area is quite unlike the rest of Bangkok.

Relatively untouched by modern development – and despite being always crowded, hot and exhausting – it’s an experience not to miss. The main road, Yaowarat Road, (appropriately) follows the curve of a dragon’s body, making it an ideal location for business.

The Chinese community in Bangkok, descendants of early traders, have been living in Thailand for generations, and generally consider themselves very much as Thais; most can no longer speak any Chinese…(including me J) The area has a somewhat seedy historical reputation for large numbers of opium dens, brothels, pawnshops and a fondness for gambling that used to prevail.

Today, gold shops and pawnshops are still very popular in Chinatown, and can be found almost anywhere there….

Moreover, Talat Kao at Chinatown is one of the place to eat at night, acted as the central market and trading place in Chinatown for over a century. Famous for its Chinese delicacies including sharks fins, dried abalone, fried puffed up fish stomachs and steamed bird’s nests, this is not a place for the faint hearted. An insightful opportunity into the culinary culture of the Chinese, for those who prefer more simplicity to your meals dumplings, noodles and freshly squeezed orange juice are all readily available

Address: Soi Ta Lat Kao
Location: Middle of Yaowarat
Opening Hours: 20:00- late

If you have the chance to visit Thailand, don’t forget to come visit ChinaTown, Bangkok…