Known as the largest market in Thailand, Chatuchak Weekend Market is among the most popular weekend markets in Bangkok. Comprising of well-over 5000 stalls, it is often called J.J and is frequented by a large number of tourists and visitors every weekend. Covering a land of 35 acres, it has been recorded that Chatuchak Weekend Market receives an approximate of 200,000 visitors per day. Although most stalls are only opened during the weekends, the western section of the market known as the Jatujak Plaza is open daily. The J.J Mall is perhaps one of the most popular sections in the market. Located on the North West corner, the mall comprises of three floors, offering visitors a range of eateries and assorted oddments.
During the weekends, the market is a microcosm of a bustling city. Filled with throngs of people, the market overflows with a number of stalls, offering visitors a range of items such as Thai handicrafts, household items, clothing, collectibles, religious artifacts and food. Providing convenience to the tourist is a number of onsite companies, which provides the service of sending their purchases abroad.
A majority of the vendors seen at the market come from locally-based factories and sell items such as clay handicrafts, wooden furniture, Buddhist amulets and antique wood carvings. Most of the local souvenirs sold at the market come from different parts of Thailand. Travellers are also able to purchase Chinese wares, ornamental stones, handmade decorated flowers, Thai Bejarong (porcelain), dolls, ceramic wares, plants, garden decorated plants and silk.
The antiques section is a much-loved favourite among the visitors. Featuring a multitude of timeless masterpieces, few of the items that could be seen are antique woodworks such as living room tables, cabinets and beds, decorative bric-a-brac and Buddha’s images. Another favourite are the clothing stores, which offer travellers a diverse range of items such as bags, accessories, and shoes. The variety of clothing styles range from avant garde to retro, making it a shopper’s paradise.
There are many Riverside hotels for the traveller planning to undertake a trip to Thailand. A fine Bangkok resort such as Anantara Bangkok Riverside will be the ideal accommodation option, located in close proximity to a number of key attractions in the area, including the Wat Pho and the National Gallery Museum.