Song Wat 2.0: Bangkok’s Coolest Comeback
Old soul, fresh look. If you think Bangkok’s just about temples and shopping malls, think again. Welcome to Song Wat in its new era—where vintage charm meets cutting-edge design, and every alley’s got a surprise.
Once a short and sleepy riverside street, Song Wat dates back to the reign of King Rama V. Nestled between the Chao Phraya River and bustling Sampheng Market, this 2-km strip was once a trading hotspot. After a few quiet decades, it’s now back in full swing—revived, refreshed, and ridiculously stylish.
River views for days : Gaze out over Thonburi from the end of the alley. Golden hour is magic here.
Where it all begins : The corner where Song Wat meets Ratchawong Road. The gateway to a street full of stories.
Timeless trade : No matter how much changes, some things stay the same. Like this old-school nut shop that’s been going strong for generations.
The revival first started when a Thai period film shot scenes here, drawing curious fans to explore. But what’s happening now? It’s bigger. It’s bolder. Think: art galleries, designer cafés, and old wooden door alleys hiding Instagram-worthy gems.
Street style, heritage frame : Song Wat’s iconic blend of old buildings and new energy.
What’s New (and So Worth It)
Let’s talk about that price tag first. Yes, Song Wat has gone a little bougie. Som tam for 120 THB? Check. Cool coffee that starts at 100 THB a cup? Double check. But is it worth it? Honestly—absolutely.
Because what you’re paying for isn’t just food. It’s ambience, art, and a vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Bangkok’s old town.
Art break : Inside Play Art House, where the gallery walls speak louder than words.
Wall whispers : Street art across from Wat Pathum Khongkha adds that final pop to your walk.
Design. Food. Culture.
The buildings? Mostly restored, not replaced. Outside: nostalgic. Inside: designers went wild—every spot is its own mood. Here’s what to check out:
- Black 777 – Edgy Northeastern Thai food
- Tung Chae – Colorful, quirky, graffiti heaven on the upper floor
Design + color overload : A quirky corner inside Tung Chae, tucked in the 100-Year Wooden Gate alley.
- Tem Nam Tem Tha – A quiet, artsy café with installation pieces upstairs
- Sit in Soi – Hidden, intimate, with artisanal drinks downstairs and fashion upstairs
And don’t miss legendary spots like:
Urai Han Palo – Old-school duck stew, local favorite
Gu Long Bao – Thai and international bao fans line up for this one
Bael cake bliss : A must-try at Tem Nam Tem Tha café. Trust us, it’s a vibe and a flavor.
Oyster & aesthetics : At Oyster & Thing, the vibe is just as fresh as the seafood.
River-end retreat : A local eatery with stunning Chao Phraya River views at the end of the wooden gate alley.
Street by Street, It’s a Living Gallery
The vibe? A mix of street culture + modern art + traditional roots. Think graffiti walls, sculpture corners, photo exhibits, and design that hits different in every shop. You’re not just visiting a neighborhood—you’re walking through an evolving story.
Hidden heritage : Inside this alley lies Luang Kocha Isahak Mosque, one of Bangkok’s oldest. It’s rarely open to the public, but you might get lucky with permission to explore.
Street gems : Local shops, fresh faces, same Song Wat spirit.
Still Song Wat at Heart
Even with the glow-up, Song Wat hasn’t forgotten who it is. You’ll still find shrines, old storefronts, wholesale dealers, and the raw energy of Sampheng just next door. It’s not a museum—it’s alive.
Paying respect : The revered Pun Tao Kong Shrine, loved and respected by the local Chinese community since way back.
When to Go?
Weekends = lively, with everything open and buzzing.
Weekdays = calm, perfect for slow wandering and quiet corners.
Final Verdict?
Song Wat is the place for travelers craving that mix of the old and the new—with a camera roll full of aesthetic corners and a stomach full of surprisingly fancy street food.
The alley itself : Every corner of the 100-Year Wooden Gate alley offers something new: art, bites, and beautiful decay.
Spice up your coffee : From Sit in Soi, choose "Coffee de Songwat" (infused with ginger, cinnamon, star anise) or the "Old Town" with hints of caramel and a whiff of cinnamon.
Go for the stories. Stay for the style. Welcome to Song Wat in its coolest form yet.
Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya