Chinatown

Most major cities nowadays have a Chinatown area. However, we know that Bangkok likes to do things big — and its version of Chinatown is no exception. Equally fun to explore during the day and night, Bangkok’s Chinatown is a haven for food, Chinese culture, and shopping. There are many Chinese temples to visit along this kilometre-long area that offer a nice contrast to Thai wats. Also, Chinese people enjoy their festivals as much as Thais, which means that there are times in the year when festivals are on full throttle here. For example, Chinese New Year in February finds the area bustling with celebrations, even more than usual.

No matter what time of year you go, Sampang Lane is a good starting point. It’s lined with family-owned shops selling gold, small trinkets, and home items. Please mind your step while wandering around, since many of the streets and walking paths are uneven. Wat Chakrawat, meanwhile, is a huge monastery with real crocodiles on its grounds. The famous China Gate, Romaneenart Park, and Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (a Chinese-Buddhist temple) are equally interesting sites to see.