Sampeng's oldest market is losing some charm, but remains an epic alley crammed with bric-a-brac, costume accoutrements, honking motorbikes, smoky quarters and shouting hawkers. It is best tackled in sections. Out east you'll discover accessories-ville. Midway is miscellany, with ceramics, monks' bowls, Chinese lanterns, kids' shoes and wrapping paper. West of Thanon Ratchawong is fabric, from jeans and fatigues to chiffon. At the Mahachai end are blankets, sarongs, buttons and laces. The market opens from 03.00 am
The Giant Swing
The Giant Swing was originally constructed in 1784 in front of the Devasathan shrine by King Rama I. During the reign of Rama II the swing ceremony was discontinued as the swing had become structurally damaged by lightning. In 1920 it was renovated and moved to its current location in order to make space for a gas plant. The ceremony was again performed until 1935, when it was discontinued after several fatal accidents.
China Town Bangkok
Chinatown Bangkok or Yaowarat was started when King Rama I decided in 1782 to establish the capital on the eastern bank of the Chao Phrya River. The Chinese immigrants who were originally settled in what is now the Grand Palace had to move out to a strip of land two km down the river.
Grand Palace
Grand Palace Bangkok
For just about 150 years, Bangkok's Grand Palace was not only the home of the King and his court, but also the entire administrative seat of government. Within the crenelated walls were the country's war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Thai Kings stopped living in the palace full time around the turn of the twentieth century, but the complex remains the seat of power and spiritual heart of the Thai kingdom.