By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock
BANGKOK, Nov 9 (Bernama) -- Song Wat Road, Bangkok's latest hidden gem.
Located near the city’s Yaowarat district (Chinatown), Song Wat Road has transformed into one of Bangkok's newest lifestyle hotspots—a vibrant hub for coffee lovers, art enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike.
Stretching one kilometre along the Chao Phraya River, the historic Song Wat Road dates back to the early 1900s. Once a bustling waterway, it served as a vital access point for water transport and a thriving hub of trade and commerce.
Today, a passionate group of young entrepreneurs called "Made In Song Wat" is leading a revitalisation effort to preserve the area's cultural heritage and introduce contemporary attractions to draw a new generation of visitors.
The founder of "Made In Song Wat", Kiattiwat Srichanwanpen, shared that the project began two years ago, with only about 10 participating local businesses and has since grown to include over 60 establishments.
“To mark the second year of our project, we have launched the Song Wat Guide Book, Volume 2, which highlights more than 60 local businesses and attractions, from cafes and restaurants to art spaces and traditional shops,” Kiattiwat told Bernama.
This year’s Song Wat Week 2024, themed "Song Wat Cross", celebrates the fusion of old and new businesses, and has attracted numerous sponsors for market booths along the street from Nov 7 to 10.
Meanwhile, the owner of Hostel Urby, Barbon Bar, and Abby Nail Salon, Punpitcha Taychakhoonavudh, has witnessed the transformation of Song Wat Road since establishing her business there in 2016.
"I always wanted to offer affordable hospitality and riverside services that everyone could afford to enjoy.
"I’m grateful that Made In Song Wat has brought young entrepreneurs together to revitalise this historic area after the pandemic," she said.
Looking ahead, Punpitcha expressed hope for eco-friendly and sustainable preservation of Song Wat's historic buildings and landmarks, blending heritage businesses with new ventures to foster a thriving, long-term community.
Song Wat Road, formerly known for its role in Bangkok’s trade and import industry, is now a unique destination blending old architecture, modern cafes, and historic temples.
In 2023, Time Out magazine named Song Wat one of the 50 coolest neighbourhoods in the world.
-- BERNAMA
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