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. Every single day, more and more Chinese junk boats were bringing goods to Thailand and thus trade began to grow between the two countries. 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.
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.
This area is unique. Just arriving in the hustle and bustle, people cannot be stopped from being amazed; the absolute highlights of Chinatown, which you should not miss like Yaowarat Road – the heart of Chinatown. Colorful decorated with neon signs and giant Chinese characters makes you feel more like being in Hong Kong than in Bangkok.
The Chinatown Gate is a large Chinese gate located in the middle of the Odeon roundabout, flanking the entrance to Bangkok´s Chinatown. This rather new attraction, which only opened in 1999, is a sign of the ascending Chinese Quarter. Interestingly, Chinatown in Bangkok is home to one of the largest Chinese communities outside of China.
Food is ubiquitous in Bangkok’s Chinatown, so you can find fresh street food at any daytime and around each the corner. But especially in the evening many food stalls open up. It’s a big sizzling and frying, it hisses, and flames shoot in the air. Best just to walk around and enjoy the variety of street food. One thing is for sure, most of the dishes you’ve never seen before, and some of them you probably don`t want to try. Everything from fishballs soup to insects, scorpions, but also exotic fruits, stuffed Chinese dumplings, dried fish, bird nest soup and seafood.
The sights, sounds and smells of Bangkok's Chinatown are an assault to the senses, so be prepared before visiting here. Thanks to the mix of Chinese and Thai cultures, this part of Bangkok capital is fascinating, especially for photographers and anyone with a sense of adventure, a day lost among the many market alleys and street food vendors can be the most memorable of any spent in Bangkok.
According to Culture Trip
