Chinatown, Chiang Mai Overview

The Chinatown in Chiang Mai is a culturally rich, albeit small area. Its close location to the busy Warorot Market sometimes makes it indistinguishable from the local Thai market area. There are several shops selling gold, cheap fabric and domestic appliances here. The market is more alive at night with stalls preparing authentic Chinese street food delicacies.

Located adjacent to Ping River, the entrance to this vibrant town of Chiang Mai is adorned with an exuberant Chinese gate opposite Chang Moi. Unlike some of the other Chinatowns in the country, Chiang Mai Chinatown is a tad bit cooler and a lot less cheap. Built over a century ago, Chinatown is still renowned as one of the popular destinations in Chiang Mai. With the bazaar bustling with Confucian temples and a wide variety of Chinese stores adorned in bright red, these colours symbolise good fortune.

Things to Do in Chinatown, Chiang Mai

1. Flower Market:
Visit this vibrant flower market, preferably during the early mornings for a refreshing experience amongst fresh flora.

2. Fresh fruits and vegetables:
If you wish to purchase fresh produce of fruits and vegetables, Chinatown strikes off all your listicles.

3. Clothes:
Since most of the brands are manufactured in Thailand, visitors can shop at Chinatown from a wide range of local and international brands at an affordable price.

4. Gold:
The one aspect of Chinatown in Chiang Mai is that it is famous for its gold. You will find several shops selling a variety of gold jewellery, including bracelets, rings, and necklaces at affordable prices.

5. Food:
No market is complete without a food station. Solely dedicated to food, visitors can relish fresh Thai snacks like northern Thai sausage, cab moo, and nam prik noom at the ground floor. There are food stalls selling fried pork, stir-fries, pre-made curries and fruit shakes as well.

6. Temples:
As you explore the market areas, there are a couple of Confucian temples here that you can drop by.

7. Ceramics, utensils and household hardware:
The Chinatown market also has an array of essential household items on display.

8. Chinese medicines:
There are quite a few Chinese medicines for any pain or discomfort you may be feeling.

Tips

Due to its popularity, Chinatown can get easily crowded. Ensure to have an eye on all your belongings.
Wear comfortable footwear as there would be a lot of walking.
If you find some prices too high, try bargaining. However, be thoughtful about what you are quoting.