Chinatown: Tours and Guided Visits

Established over 200 years ago, Bangkok’s Chinatown district is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and is home to stunning Chinese temples, tasty traditional cuisine and shopping opportunities galore.

Book a Chinatown tour in Bangkok to experience this special area and all it has to offer to the fullest! As one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, there is something exciting to see and do around every corner.

Here's all you need to know about Chinatown, one of the most exhilarating sightseeing tours in Bangkok.

Where is Chinatown located?

Chinatown in Bangkok is centrally located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, which bisects the city. The main road in Chinatown is Yaowarat Road, and sometimes the entire area is referred to as Yaowarat.

Chinatown can easily be reached by bus, boat or taxi. If you decide to take a shuttle boat you should get off at Rachawongse or the Marine Department. If you decide to travel by bus, it is easiest to get off at Yaowarat Road, as this is the heart of the district.

What are the best things to do in Chinatown?

The Chinatown Gate

Located on Tri Mit Road, the large and ornate Chinatown Gate acts as the entrance to Bangkok’s Chinatown. Sometimes referred to as ‘Odean Gate’, this structure was built in honor of King Adulyadej in 1999 and is one of the neighborhood’s most famous landmarks.

Sampeng Lane

Sampeng Lane, located in the heart of Chinatown, is home to a vibrant open-air market filled with a wide variety of local vendors. In the market, you’ll find souvenirs, clothing, traditional medicines and so much more.

Wat Traimit

While Bangkok’s Chinatown is home to dozens of temples, shrines and statues, the temple of Wat Traimit is undoubtedly one of the most popular thanks to its 5,500-kilogram seated Buddha statue.

Romaneenart Park

After exploring the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s Chinatown, there is no better place to relax than Romaneenart Park. There are plenty of beautiful water features as well as benches, so feel free to bring a book or a snack.

Sala Chalermkrung

Established back in 1933, Sala Chalermkrung was originally built as a movie theater and is known for its quirky Modernist style. Today, you can visit this unique theater in Chinatown to watch traditional Thai dancing.

What are the best tours to visit Chinatown?

Evening food tour in Chinatown

Taste the flavors of one of Bangkok’s most iconic neighborhoods when you join this small-group evening food tour in Chinatown. Your local guide will take you to some of Chinatown’s best eateries and you’ll get to taste dishes like noodles, dumplings, Chinese doughnuts and more!

Not only will you be sampling tasty treats, but you’ll also be provided with insight into the community’s culinary culture. As the tour is limited to just 10 people, you can look forward to a personalized experience and the chance to meet other food lovers.

Experience the flavor-filled dishes of Chinatown, tasting both Chinese and Thai cuisine as you walk through the neighborhood with your guide.

Walking tour in Bangkok’s Chinatown

Discover a healthy mixture of Chinatown’s most iconic sites alongside a few of the neighborhood’s hidden gems, which you would be sure to miss if you weren’t being led by an expert guide on a walking tour.

Spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the district, stopping at the Sampeng Market to do some shopping and tasting traditional delicacies along the way. The cherry on top is visiting a local temple and shrine that sheds some light on local culture and tradition.

Gain an introduction to this fascinating district and don’t forget to ask your guide for tips for the rest of your stay in Bangkok.

4-Hour guided tour of Chinatown in Bangkok

Make the most of your time in Chinatown when you book a 4-hour guided tour of the neighborhood. Your local guide is there to ensure that you don’t miss a thing as you take a stroll through Chinatown’s narrow alleyways and busy city streets.

Some of the highlights that you can look forward to include Wat Mangkorn, Chinatown Gate, Talad Noi and the Holy Rosary Church. You’ll also enjoy unbeatable views of the Chao Phraya River.

This tour provides the perfect opportunity to chat to locals and take your time as you fully experience the many wonders of Chinatown!

What are the prices of Chinatown tours?

Basic Chinatown tours in Bangkok cost around US$50 per person for introductory excursions that last around 2 hours. Slightly more comprehensive sightseeing tours, lasting around 4 hours, usually cost US$60 per person.

Food-focused tours in Chinatown, which include several tastings from local eateries, generally cost US$85 per person.

Where do Chinatown tours start?

When you book a Chinatown tour in Bangkok, you’ll need to meet your guide at a nearby landmark as hotel transfers are not typically included. Popular meeting spots include Hua Lamphong Station, the Chinatown Gate and other easy-to-find landmarks.

When is the best time to visit Chinatown?

The best time to visit Chinatown is between November and February, outside of the tropical monsoon season. Chinatown is busiest on the weekends, so if you want to experience the hustle and bustle, try to visit on a Saturday or Sunday. However, if you prefer a slightly less crowded environment, a weekday visit might be better.

What other sightseeing tours can you enjoy in Bangkok?

• Free walking tours in Bangkok
• City tours in Bangkok
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours in Bangkok
• Scooter tours in Bangkok

Travel tips

• You'll be doing a lot of walking around, so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate.
• Bangkok can be hot and humid, so carry a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated.
• Some of the best parts of Chinatown are hidden away in small side streets and alleys. Don't be afraid to venture off the main road.
• Bangkok's Chinatown is famous for its food, especially seafood. From noodle dishes to exotic fruits, to sweet and savory snacks, be adventurous and try something new.