Those who have spent time in Bangkok probably are familiar with Suan Lum, the popular night market and bazaar that featured food, shopping, and entertainment all under the night sky, and was a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike. Alas, Suan Lum fell prey to the developer's sword and has been sorely missed. However, the opening of Asiatique Riverfront Night Market may fill that void, and its setting along the banks of the Chao Phraya River is a lovely spot for a night on the town.
Asiatique Night Bazaar — Photo courtesy of Dave Stamboulis
Boasting 50,000 square meters and 1500 shops, with parking area for over 2000 cars, everything is spacious at Asiatique. The market is housed in ten giant warehouses, each one having their own set of shops, restaurants, and bars. The warehouses are divided by districts such as the Waterfront, Factory, and Town Square, all easily navigable with large lit up maps that are conveniently placed in front of each warehouse.The theme throughout the market is retro and industrial, with plenty of giant sculptures of nuts, bolts, and gears hanging above and below. Narrow passageways run through each warehouse, with old trams, rickshaw statues, and fountains surrounded by park benches making for scenery other than boutique shops and eateries.
inside the Asiatique Riverfront Night Market — Photo courtesy of Dave Stamboulis
While the clientele and prices are certainly a lot more upscale than Suan Lum, there still are plenty of shops selling clothing and bric a brac at prices more akin to local markets, and of course there are plenty of cute bars and eateries to relax in once the shopping is done.
Despite its somewhat out of the way location, Asiatique is easily reached via their free shuttle boat which stops at the Saphan Taksin Pier next to the Skytrain station of the same name.