Shop like a pro at Bangkok's massive Jatujak Market
Bangkok's Jatujak Market -- JJ for short -- is one of the biggest in Asia. Covering 35 acres, with 15,000 vendors and attractiong as many as 200,000 shoppers on weekends, it's the place to go for Thai handicrafts, artwork, clothing, household goods and even pets.
But here's the rub: shopping at Jatujak Market can be incredibly tedious. The place is sweltering. It's crowded. And it's easy to get lost amid the labyrinthine network of stalls.
But it needn't be. Not if you know where to go and how to manage the madness.
Prioritize
To maximize time head straight for the section of Jatujak Market that features the noticeably more up-market items. This sliver of the market is on the western edge of the grounds, along Kampaengphet 2 Road. Some maps label this area the "Dream Section" or "Jatujak Plaza."
Here you'll find a collection of upscale shops and vendors selling frilly dresses by up-and-coming Thai designers -- also sparkly jewelry, leather purses and shoulder bags.
Even the non-fashion items in this corner -- books, maps and trinkets -- are of higher quality than the rest of Jatujak Market. The beauty of this area is that you can shop here, on the JJ periphery, without having to delve into the madness of the market's interior.
Bargain wisely
As elsewhere in Jatujak Market, bargaining is certainly acceptable in the Dream Section, though vendors aren't really willing to budge too much on prices. Purchasing more than one item will raise your odds of getting a better deal.
Stay hydrated, stay sane
Go early. Jatujak Market is open on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm. It heats up to almost unbearable levels by midday. In the early morning hours there are fewer shoppers and the place is easier to navigate.
Relax. Eat.
Remember there's no rule that says you can't make your outing a leisurely affair. Stop and have a snack at one of the many food vendors. Or an iced tea or coffee. There are small restaurants and stalls in every corner on every Jatujak Market soi, so just pick one and relax as you ponder your next purchase.
Carry a map
Famed local graphic goddess Nancy Chandler publishes a line of popular, hand-drawn maps that are indispensable. Her Bangkok map, which includes Jatujak Market, will come in handy should you find yourself lost amid the endless rows of vintage T-shirts, sneakers and dried fish.
Jatujak Market
Take the skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station, exit down the right-hand stairs and follow the crowd for five-minute walk. Or take the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park station, and follow the signs.
Open: 8am-6pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Some plant shops open Wednesday and Thursday
Jatujak Market office tel. 0 2272 5382 3
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