Photo courtesy of Dave Stamboulis

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Type: Clothing Stores, Flea Markets, Markets, Public Markets, Shopping Districts

Last updated on July 7, 2022

10Best Says

Originally a flea market started in the 1950s by a former prime minister who wanted to put a flea market into every town in Thailand, Chatuchak, more affectionately known as JJ Market, is now the largest market in Thailand. Over 5000 stalls vie for business, selling everything from clothing to pets, antiques, plants, amulets, and plenty of food and drink. The market is now a highly touristed affair, hot, crowded, and no longer dirt cheap, yet it is still a great place to people watch, find something you don't have to buy, and the latest addition of impromptu cafes for sipping a cappuccino or having a cold beer and watching the world go by making it worth an afternoon. Note that while there are some stalls open Thursday-Friday, you really need to come here on the weekend to see JJ at its best.

Address:

Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd
Bangkok, 10900

EXPERT TIPS BY: Dave Stamboulis
Bangkok Local Expert

Best Shopping: "The back section of the market is probably the most interesting, as fairly illegal things such as cockfighting and various animal (some endangered some not) species are to be found but don't get too pointy with your camera back here, as the merchants may be suspicious of your motives."
Christmas Shopping: "The back section of the market is probably the most interesting, as fairly illegal things such as cockfighting and various animal (some endangered some not) species are to be found, but don't get too pointy with your camera back here, as the merchants may be suspicious of your motives."

Recommended as Best Shopping Because: For great people watching and an amazing variety of goods, Chatuchak is a Bangkok institution.
Best for Christmas Shopping Because: For Bangkok's premiere outdoor shopping experience and wide selection of local gifts for Christmas, Chatuchak is the best.