From Tradition to Trend
Charoen Krung, Bamrung Muang, and Feung Nakhonto
For a spontaneous trip, we mapped out a journey to explore the historic heart of Bangkok along three iconic streets: Charoen Krung, Bamrung Muang, and Feung Nakhon. These streets seamlessly blend classic charm, art, culture, history, and modern lifestyle. Despite being among the first Western-style roads in Thailand, built over a century ago, each neighborhood has its own unique character waiting to be explored.
Charoen Krung: A New Creative Community in Bangkok’s Old Town
Starting our day at Charoen Krung, Thailand’s very firstroad, we explored a neighborhood that’s long been a hubof commerce and culture since the reign of King Rama IV. Itbecame a hub of modernity and innovation in the old capital.The area’s architecture, influenced by colonial or SinoPortuguese styles inspired by Penang and Singapore, s seen inthe old shophouses and commercial buildings. Once a bustlingtrade center, especially for Chinese immigrants, Charoen Krungis now a creative district—a street of art filled with galleries andtrendy spaces, harmoniously blending with long-establishedbusinesses passed down through generations.
Our first destination was The Corner House, a brickorange building on Soi Charoen Krung 35. Renovated froma shoe factory, it has transformed into a creative hub for theyounger generation, blending vintage charm with modernenergy. It hosts a variety of events, from film screenings andvinyl sessions to art exhibitions, workshops, and craft markets.The Corner House beautifully captures the spirit, history, andmemories of past generations while reimagining them fortoday’s vibrant artistic scene.
By afternoon, we were ready for a caffeine boost and a sweet(s) treat, and the nearby cafés offered plenty of tempting options. We stopped by Charoen 43 Art & Eatery, a community gem at the entrance of Charoen Krung Soi 43. Housed in a row of shophouses with preserved original structures, the space has been thoughtfully updated with stylish touches that practically beg for a photo or two.
We settled into REN Cafe and Goods, a specialty matcha café known for its tranquil atmosphere and ceremonial-grade matcha imported directly from Japan. A must-try is the coconut matcha granita — a refreshing pick-me-up that revitalizes even the weariest traveller.
Bamrung Muang: Immerse in Culture, Savor the Breeze, Explore the Local’s Delights
When you think of Bamrung Muang, the Giant Swingarea immediately comes to mind. This neighborhood,known for housing Thailand’s largest market for Buddhistsupplies, is also rich in history, with impressive temples andclassic architecture all around. Our first stop was Wat SuthatThepwararam Ratchaworamahawihan, one of Thailand’s sixhighest-grade royal temples. Inside its grand hall enshrinesPhra Si Sakyamuni, a revered Buddha statue brought from WatMahathat in Sukhothai, and Phra Sunthorn Vani, a guardiandeity in Buddhist belief. The temple’s expansive grounds offer asense of calm and serenity the moment you step in.
We also explored Prang Nara and Prang Phuthon, twohistorical neighborhoods once home to old palaces, nowknown for their culinary treasures. Try Prang Nara’s famouspork meatball shop, along with Natthaporn, a traditional Thaiice cream parlor that has been delighting locals for over 80years. Here, you’ll find signature flavors like coconut and youngcoconut, alongside chocolate, coffee, and green tea. We endedthe day with a scenic walk across Chang Rong Si Bridge,arriving at the beautiful Neo-Classical Ministry of Defensebuilding, which sits across from the orange-hued palacebuildings of Saranrom Palace. Sunset is the ideal time to behere; as the golden light casts its glow on the European-stylebuildings. You will get a grand, timeless view that’s far morestriking on foot than from a passing car.
Feung Nakhon: A Chill, Classic Street with Timeless Charm
Feung Nakhon, the shortest of the three streets, connects Charoen Krung and Bamrung Muang. Once the heart of Bangkok’s print media scene, it was lined with printing presses and publishing houses that attracted prominent writers and thinkers during its heyday. One of these was the Lamuljit Press, which has since been transformed into IM En Ville, a café and restaurant that preserves the original charm of the 150-year-old building. The ground floor offers fresh-baked bakery, while the second floor features a fusion-style restaurant with unique views of Wat Ratchabophit temple.
For a closer look at intricate beauty, a short walk across the street will lead you to Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Maha Simaram, the royal temple of King Rama V. This temple blends Western and Eastern architecture with exquisite design and colorful Benjarong glazed tiles. The most stunning spot is the corridor connecting the ordination hall with the main chedi (pagoda), a beautiful path that feels almost otherworldly. It’s no wonder that visitors from all over come to admire it—even as locals, we’re always left in awe on every visit.
As evening set in, we discovered Cha Bo Phit, a charming new tea café. This hidden gem by the canal offered a cozy escape, where we sipped aromatic Chinese teas, savored delicious treats, and captured the last light of day. The owner shared fascinating stories and tea-brewing tips, bringing our journey through these historic streets to a perfect close. It was an ideal blend of old-world charm and modern charisma — a reflection of what makes these neighborhoods so uniquely captivating.
The full version is available in the 5000s magazine issue 60. Subscribe Now.
