Chatuchak Weekend Market (or JJ Market) is one of Bangkok's most famous attractions and one of the largest open-air markets in the world, boasting over 15,000 stalls spread across 27 sections. Whether you're looking for trendy clothes, Thai handicrafts, home décor, plants, or vintage treasures, this market truly has it all.
If you've seen glowing chatuchak market reviews, you'll know why it's considered a must-visit spot in Bangkok — a paradise for shoppers, foodies, and bargain hunters alike. The bustling yet friendly atmosphere, endless variety, and authentic local experience make it a favorite for families, first-time visitors, and travelers seeking local culture.
Getting There & Opening hours
Chatuchak Market Opening hours
- Friday: Evening wholesale (around 6:00 PM - midnight)
- Saturday & Sunday: Full market day (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
How to get to Chatuchak Market
- By BTS Skytrain: Take the BTS to Mo Chit Station (Exit 1 or 3). The market entrance is a short walk away.
- By MRT Subway: Get off at Chatuchak Park Station (Exit 1) or Kamphaeng Phet Station (Exit 2), both connecting directly to the market.
When you arrive, you can pick up a market map near the main entrance or information booths — useful for navigating the 27 maze-like sections.
Chatuchak Market Map (Market Layout & Shopping Sections)
Chatuchak Market is divided into 27 sections, each offering a different type of merchandise. Navigating can be tricky, but each section is numbered, and maps are available around the entrances.
Key shopping areas
- Clothing & accessories: Sections 2-6, 10-26 - Trendy fashion, vintage clothes, bags, and handmade jewelry.
- Handicrafts: Sections 8-11 - Thai souvenirs, wooden carvings, silk products, and handmade homeware.
- Ceramics: Sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25 - Pottery, plates, cups, and local artisan ceramics.
- Furniture & home décor: Sections 1, 3, 4, 7, 8 - Unique Thai wooden furniture and interior pieces.
- Plants & gardening: Sections 3, 4 - Flowers, bonsai, and garden décor.
- Pets & animals: Sections 8, 9, 11, 13 - Small pets and accessories (note: check for updated regulations).
- Antiques & collectibles: Sections 1, 26 - Rare items, vintage décor, and retro collections.
Things to do in Chatuchak Market
Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Explore over 8,000 stalls selling clothing, art, housewares, and more. Fashion dominates sections 8--24, while home décor is found along the western edge. It's a shopper's paradise and a Bangkok must-visit.
Explore Unique Sections
Discover antiques and collectibles in Section 1, or browse arts, crafts, and hill-tribe items in Section 25-26. Each area offers something unique for treasure hunters.
Enjoy Local Food
Between Sections 6-8, grab classic Thai dishes like pad thai, grilled satay, and mango sticky rice from lively food stalls — a delicious break from shopping.
Visit Or Tor Kor Market
Just a short walk away, Or Tor Kor Market is known for premium fruits, vegetables, and gourmet Thai foods — a great stop for food lovers.
Relax in the Parks
Take a breather at Chatuchak Park, or visit nearby Rot Fai Park and Queen Sirikit Park for jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing among greenery.
Visit the Children's Discovery Museum
Families can enjoy interactive exhibits and a small water park at this nearby museum — perfect for a quick, kid-friendly stop.
Get a Massage
End your market day with a foot massage from vendors near Section 25 — a relaxing way to recharge before heading out.
Ready to dive deeper into Bangkok's most famous market? Explore our full guide on all the best things to do in Chatuchak Market now!
What to eat in Chatuchak Weekend Market
Exploring the food and drink scene at Chatuchak Market is a must for any visitor. Beyond endless shopping, it's a paradise for food lovers, showcasing authentic Thai street food in one place.
Wander through maze-like alleys filled with grilled pork skewers (moo ping), pad thai, som tum, and fried quail eggs. Treat yourself to coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell or the beloved mango sticky rice. For lighter bites, try grilled squid, satay, fish balls, or Thai crepes (kanom buang) as you explore.
Most food stalls are clustered around Sections 2, 3, and 23-25, with popular spots near the Kamphaeng Phet MRT exit and Gate 2 for cafés and air-conditioned breaks. Sections 4 and 6 also feature food courts serving fresh, cooked-to-order Thai meals.
What to eat for dessert:
- Don't miss coconut ice cream and mango sticky rice — Chatuchak classics.
- Try kanom krok (coconut pancakes), roti with banana and condensed milk, or sweet sticky rice with taro for authentic Thai flavors.
What to drink:
- Try Thai iced milk tea (cha yen) or Thai coffee (oliang) — sweet, strong, and refreshing.
- Grab fresh fruit smoothies or cold-pressed juices (mango, watermelon, passion fruit) from local stalls for a quick cool-down.
- Look for specialty coffee stands scattered throughout the market for a caffeine boost.
Tips on When and Where to Eat at Chatuchak Market
Best time to eat:
- Avoid the midday heat (around noon): it's often too hot to eat comfortably.
- Visit in the early morning (9-11 AM) when food is freshly prepared.
- Or go in the late afternoon (4-6 PM) when the weather cools and the market feels more relaxed.
Stay comfortable:
- Bring a hat and drink plenty of water.
- Take short breaks in shaded areas or cool off in nearby cafés between shopping rounds.
Final tip:
- Eating at Chatuchak Market isn't just about filling up — it's a culinary journey through Bangkok's street food culture, where every bite reflects the city's local life and vibrant community spirit.
Tips for a Better Visiting Experience at Chatuchak Market
Plan your trip:
- Plan your route: Decide which sections you want to explore first — the market is huge and easy to get lost in.
- Timing: Early morning (9-11 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) offers cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Dress comfortably: Lightweight clothes, breathable fabric, and comfy shoes are essential. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
Shopping:
- Bargaining: Negotiation is part of the fun! Offer polite counterprices, especially for clothes or handicrafts.
- Payment: Cash is king, though some shops now accept QR or card payments.Stay hydrated: There are small convenience stores and drink vendors throughout.
- Ethical tip: Avoid supporting illegal wildlife trade or unregulated pet stalls; stick to shops selling certified animal supplies.
Attractions & Related Areas Nearby Chatuchak Market
1. Chatuchak Park
Located right next to Chatuchak Market, Chatuchak Park is one of Bangkok's oldest public parks and offers a peaceful escape from the market's buzz. With shaded walkways, lakes, and jogging paths, it's a favorite spot for locals to relax after shopping. You'll often see families having picnics, people exercising, and street musicians performing near the pond. The park connects directly to Queen Sirikit Park and Wachirabenchathat Park, forming one of the largest green zones in the city.
2. Queen Sirikit Park
Just a short walk from Chatuchak Market, Queen Sirikit Park is a botanical garden dedicated to Thailand's Queen Mother. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens filled with tropical plants, lotus ponds, and flowering trees that change colors with the seasons. It's ideal for a calm stroll or a quick photography stop after a day of shopping. Nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful trails and birdwatching spots hidden throughout the park.
3. Wachirabenchathat Park
Commonly known as Rot Fai Park (Railway Park), this sprawling green space lies just behind Chatuchak Park. It's a popular spot for cycling, renting paddleboats, and relaxing under large shady trees. The park also houses the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, making it a great stop for families or travelers seeking a quiet nature retreat in the city. Its scenic paths and lotus ponds make it one of the most picturesque urban parks in Bangkok.
4. JJ Mall
If you want an air-conditioned shopping break from the outdoor market, JJ Mall is located right next to Chatuchak Market. The mall offers local fashion, home décor, and vintage items, but with more comfort and less crowding. There are also restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops — a perfect stop for those who still have energy to shop but prefer a relaxed environment. It's a convenient spot for a meal or coffee between rounds of bargain hunting.
5. Or Tor Kor Market
Across from Chatuchak Market, Or Tor Kor Market is one of Bangkok's cleanest and most famous fresh markets, ranked among the world's best by CNN. It's known for its premium fruits, seafood, curry pastes, and street food stalls that serve authentic Thai flavors in a clean setting. This is the perfect place to sample seasonal Thai fruits like durian, mango, and mangosteen or to grab a delicious local meal after shopping.
6. Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Located inside Wachirabenchathat Park, this small but beautiful attraction showcases hundreds of butterfly species in a lush, dome-shaped conservatory. It's an educational and serene experience, especially for nature enthusiasts or families traveling with kids. Visitors can learn about Thailand's diverse insect life while enjoying a walk through tropical plants and blooming flowers.
7. Union Mall
A few BTS stops or a short taxi ride away at Phahon Yothin, Union Mall is another shopping destination popular with locals. It offers trendy Thai fashion, accessories, and beauty products at affordable prices. Compared to Chatuchak, it's more modern and air-conditioned — a great alternative for shoppers who prefer indoor comfort without losing the local vibe.
8. Mo Chit BTS & Chatuchak MRT Area
The surrounding transport hubs — BTS Mo Chit and MRT Chatuchak Park — form a lively area filled with small cafés, food stalls, and local shops. Travelers often stop here for quick meals or coffee before heading to other parts of Bangkok. Its accessibility makes it the perfect starting point for exploring nearby neighborhoods like Ari or Ladprao.
FAQs of Visiting Chatuchak Market
Q: What are the Chatuchak Market opening hours?
A: Friday evenings (wholesale) and full days on Saturday--Sunday from around 9 AM to 6 PM.
Q: Which sections are best for clothes, antiques, and plants?
A: Clothes - Sections 2-6, 10-26; Antiques - Sections 1, 26; Plants - Sections 3-4.
Q: Is bargaining common in Chatuchak market?
A: Yes, friendly bargaining is part of the experience. Be polite and smile while negotiating.
Q: Can I visit with children? Is it stroller-friendly?
A: Yes, but mornings are best as it's less crowded. Some narrow lanes can be tricky for strollers.
Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: Mostly cash, though a growing number of stalls accept Thai QR payments or mobile transfers.
Q: Is Chatuchak Market safe?
A: Yes, it's generally safe. Just keep an eye on your belongings, especially during peak hours.