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Mae Kha Canal, Chiang Mai Resembles Otaru Canal, With Japanese-Inspired Shops & Street Art

Mae Kha Canal in Chiang Mai


Visiting Otaru Canal in Hokkaido can be exciting because of its charm, especially during wintertime. However, if travelling to Japan is not feasible for you, consider heading to Mae Kha Canal in Chiang Maias it gives off Otaru vibes and offers many Japanese-inspired cafes and shops to discover.

Read on to find out what the place can offer.


A Chiang Mai canal that looks like Hokkaido’s Otaru Canal


Image credit: @b._.b.ee

The canal was nicely renovated to resemble Otaru Canal where you can stroll and take interesting pictures; therefore, it has become a chic spot for visitors in Chiang Mai.

Image credit: @33pokpak11

Both sides of the canal are filled with Japanese-style shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can see some houses decorated with Japanese-inspired lanterns and norens. Since there are some cafes here, you can take a break at one and unwind for a bit.

Image credit: @linly_cy

After taking a break at a cafe, you can go take pictures with street art on the white wall nearby.

Image credit: @waewreview168

Another trendy photogenic spot you can’t miss is a warm yellow bridge in the middle of the canal.

Image credit: @viviannviolett 

If you visit the canal in the daytime, we recommend returning in the evening because the canal also looks spectacular and vibrant with the lights at the shops along it.


Getting to Mae Kha Canal in Chiang Mai


Since the canal is located five minutes away from downtown Chiang Mai, you can get to it easily by taking a songthaew or rod daeng – the city’s local term for the vehicle– which you can find in the city.

If you’re looking for a place in Chiang Mai to shoot nice photos, this place is worth your attention.

Address: 9 Sridonchai Road, Chang Khlan, Chiang Mai 50100
Contact: +66 9 3790 8058 | Google Maps

Other places to visit in Chiang Mai:


Cover image adapted from: @b._.b.ee and @dtoongchill