When Bangkok was chosen as Thailands capital, the Chinese traders occupying the river bank were moved back to make space for the Grand Palace and other buildings. They were resettled southeast of the old royal city in a district which today remains Chinatown, Krung and Yaowaraj roads.
Characterized by crowded narrow streets packed with small shops selling herbal medicines and other ethnic products, Chinatown is a delight for inveterate browsers. Most typical of the district is Sampeng Lane (Soi Wanit), which is jammed with a heady mix of exotic goods.
At Sampeng Lanes western end is Pahurat, where the ethnic flavour changes to Indian and the main merchandise is cloth.
A little to the north, between Yaowaraj and Charoen Krung roads, is Nakhon Kasem (Thieves Market), no longer selling hot goods but offering a curious mix of old and new, especially brassware, shests, cabinets and other furniture.
On the southeast edge of Chinatown, between Yaowaraj and Charoen Krung roads, Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) is famous for its 3m high solid gold statue of the Buddha, weighing 5.5 tonnes. The image is a fine example of the Sukhothai style of Thai sculpture.
Open daily 09:00 - 17:00.