Sampheng Market (ตลาดสําเพ็ง) – a legendary market in Chinatown
Before malls and night markets, if you ever wanted something, especially in bulk, you’d pay a visit to Sampheng Market (ตลาดสําเพ็ง). Also spelled Sampeng, the legendary market has been around for hundreds of years. It’s well-known for its bulk wholesale products, off-brand and knock-offs, as well as textiles. The historic vibes alone making it worth visiting, but it is a must-stop for anyone looking to browse and dig for unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
Here’s what you’ll need to know before visiting Sampheng Market.
When is Sampheng Market open?
Image credit: @newyear_patsu via Instagram
The regular Sampheng Market is open from 8am until 5pm. That’s where you’ll see most of the bulk item shops and textiles.
However, there’s also a night market version of Sampheng, which is open from 2am until around 7am. These shops are mostly various accessories and fashion products.
A historic market in Chinatown famed for having everything
Image credit: @faily_lady_11 via Instagram
Before department stores and online shopping became the Thai go-to for all things buying, Sampheng Market was the be-all-end-all. When I was a kid, if we wanted to buy something but we couldn’t find it anywhere else, chances are that Sampheng would have it.
Although that magic has mostly gone away through the advent of online shopping, Sampheng still holds dear to many local hearts.
That’s why it still retains its lively and crowded market vibe, despite how much we hate walking in the heat.
Today, it is known for its bulk item sales and textiles.
The market is spread over a wide area, so you can spend hours just wandering and browsing.
Also a night market!
Image credit: @mrspaweena via Instagram
Most night markets will start in the early evening, but Sampheng’s night market runs from 2am until morning. Called the 2am Sampheng Market (ตลาดสำเพ็งตี 2) in Thai, this night market is famed for its massive selection of fashion and accessories products.
If you’re looking for a unique look, it’s hard to find a better place than Sampheng.
The night market is closed on Mondays.
How do I get to Sampheng Market?
The closest MRT stations to this famed market are MRT Sam Yot and MRT Wat Mangkon. From there, it’s either a 10-minute walk from the station or catching a local bus.
If you want to take the bus, take either the 4, 7, 21, 37, 40, 56, 73, or 529. Get off once the bus reaches Thanon Chakkrawat (ถนน จักรวรรดิ).
Find whatever you’re looking for at Sampheng Market
Whether or not you’ll add to the legend of finding whatever you’re looking for at Sampheng or not, the market is worth a visit if you’re a shopaholic. It does get tight and crowded, so make sure you keep your things safe.
For another legendary market in Chinatown, check out our article on Khlong Thom Center which is well known for selling electronics. But if you’re just looking for things to do in March 2024, check out our massive things to do list here.
Address: Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
Opening hours: 8am-5pm, Daily (daytime market); 2am-7am, closed Mondays (night market)
Google Maps
Cover image adapted from: @newyear_patsu via Instagram
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