The Hustling and Bustling Bangkok's Chinatown in Yaowarat

Wednesday, 2022-12-28

Here's my entry for the #monomad challenge.

I've been to many Chinatowns in my travel. They all have a few things in common, such as being busy and crowded, noisy, smelly, and even dirty, but it is still my favorite place to visit. Bangkok's Chinatown located in the Yaowarat area is also no different. The Chinatown area in Bangkok has existed for over 200 years. The neighborhood is popular among backpackers because it provides cheap lodging and food. Here you can find restaurants and rows of shops selling souvenirs, antiques, Chinese herbs, and all sorts of daily necessities at low prices.

Outside the Wat Pho Temple complex while waiting for a taxi, I saw a man feeding a squirrel.

We visited Chinatown right after we visited Wat Pho, the reclining Buddha temple. When we arrived, it was around 15:30. Traffic congestion was found almost everywhere we went. We explored every alley on the main artery of Yaowarat road on a hot and sweaty afternoon.

The noise and air pollution from the traffic, the walking pedestrian crowds, and the narrow sidewalk that has all been taken over and occupied by street peddlers and food stalls made it almost impossible to pass.

The chaotic traffic mixed with pedestrians is part of the daily lives and the charm of most of Asia's big cities.

Daily activities on the main artery road. As you walk past the shops, your olfactory sense will also be tested. Some of the shops emanate their own peculiar aroma, depending on what they sell.

Exploring the alley crowded with tourists and locals. It's just amazing what you can find here. In the evening, these alleys turned into an outdoor dining area. The smell of food and barbecue smoke filled the whole alley.

The street food night scenery, traffic still congested, and alleys that was busy with pedestrians in the afternoon now become outdoor dining area.

Chinatown at night. Traffic was still busy and a long queue of people waiting on the roadside for food.

Bangkok is a megapolitan city with plenty of places to explore and see. Although I do not speak the language, I always feel comfortable and enjoy my time when I'm there. The friendly people, spicy food, and culture somewhat remind me of home.

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A baby boomer who's trying to embrace and adapt to the new digital world. Worked for over 30 years in the IT industry before retiring and now run an online vegetable delivery and hydroponics equipment business. Enjoy traveling, cooking, writing, playing pool, and all IT-related stuff. You're always welcome to leave a comment or feedback, and an upvote or reblog is also greatly appreciated.