Asiatique The Riverfront: Experience the Living Museum & Art Festival Journey in Bangkok

The Bear Team 5 min read

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Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) is a real hive of activity in terms of shopping. There are so many excellent shopping malls in the city that have something for everyone, from locals and expats to high-end tourists worldwide.

One of Bangkok's most unique and exciting shopping options is the jaw-dropping Asiatique, The Riverfront Shopping Mall. Asiatique is a conceptual shopping mall that has combined two of Thailand's most popular market styles – a mall and a night bazaar. Asiatique is located just a short 10 minutes down water from the Saphan Taksin BTS Station, which was once a bustling port and international trade area. Times have changed. The city is now called Asiatique, home to 1,500 boutiques, almost 50 eateries, warehouse complexes, and much more.

Enjoy your day at the Asiatique Riverfront Shopping Mall with us and experience the hustle of the night bazaar here. 

History of the Docks

In 1898, under the leadership of founder Hans Niels Andersen in Copenhagen, the East Asiatic Company began operating the factories on the Chao Phraya River in present-day Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok).

Other companies followed, and freight sailing ships laid the foundation for the Asian trade with Siam, today's Thailand. Through regular steamship connections of the Siam Steam Navigation Company in 1908, trade with Asia became more predictable; the time of the proud clipper on the seas in the Asian trade was history. Even today, department stores testify to the trading place and show an unknown story of the Kingdom. 

After World War II, 1947, the port was shut down; in 2011, TCC Land took over the land and a retail/entertainment complex, now known as Asiatique The Riverfront. Today, in addition to the original factories of 1907, a sawmill and an air raid bunker from the Second World War have been preserved. The entire park has been rebuilt in the style of 1907-1947 and offers the visitor immersion in the splendor of architecture in the reign of King Rama 5 (colonial period). 

 Fun Fact!

Asiatique Riverfront Shopping Mall offers much, from delicious food to sightseeing. Visitors can also shop around and enjoy the night bazaar. The popular live shows are not to be missed.

Asiatique The Riverfront Overview

Most shops and stalls are located in the massive hangers/warehouses. Once you are inside, you will be surprised by its uniqueness. It is the only market in Thailand that you will need a map to circumnavigate. The shopping areas are split into four sections to find what you want quickly.

If you are looking for the most boutique shops, head to the Charoenkrung District section, which sells handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, fashion items, and more. There are more than 1,000 stores set over the four sections. From popular local brands to massive brand names, the shopping options at Asiatique are simply stunning. 

  Did You Know?

The East Asiatic Company was historically involved in trade with Siam. This company owned port rights at Chao Phraya but ceased to exist. In 2011, the site was renovated and named Asiatique Riverfront Shopping Mall.

More Than Just A Shopping Mall

There is more to Asiatique than just shopping for fashion and clothing items. The shopping mall is also home to lots of cutting-edge gadgets that you can find in the Factory District section. You can find all electronic goods here, from the latest phones and computers to tablets. You will even find an Apple Store in this area. 

Are you looking for a spot for food? Asiatique is home to a multitude of food outlets, both small and large. The upscale dining options are located in the Factory District. You will find many eateries here, such as the smart Italian and numerous Thai seafood options. Regarding nightlife and having a few drinks, we suggest you visit the fourth and final area – the Town Square section. This area offers a lot of bars and pubs and food options such as fast food. You can visit KFC, MK, Pizza Company, and Au Bon Pain here. 

Regarding entertainment, the two most popular places are the Calypso Ladyboy Cabaret, one of the largest in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), and the puppet show at the Joe Louis Theater. These shows are massive and draw big crowds, especially at weekends. You will also find many shops with brands and tourist souvenirs.

The great thing about the bazaar is that there are few tourists here, as many visitors are local Thais. Because it’s not overrun with tourists, it has a different feel from many of the malls and bazaars in the city. Asiatique The Riverfront is a great place to visit at night for a show, a snack, and a few drinks with friends. 

Visiting Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok

Asiatique The Riverfront is open from 5 pm every evening and is the perfect place to buy a gift or fashion item. The quickest and most convenient way to get there is by boat. You can take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and then get on a free shuttle bus at the end of the pier. The boat takes just 10 minutes and stops running at 11 pm.

When you want to experience shopping options in the city, Asiatique The Riverfront is for you. It merges a modern mall with a bazaar, nightlife, and restaurant options under one roof. We recommend visiting the mall on weekdays because the locals can overrun the place at weekends. It is a unique and memorable experience in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). 

  Trivia!

The mall covers an area of 12 acres with future expansion plans.

Map & More Information

ASIATIQUE The Riverfront was historically a port building that became one of Bangkok's largest open-air shopping centers in the Chao Phraya River. It is also the first of many new riverfront entertainments, night markets, and shopping areas along the area. With lots of shops, restaurants, live shows, and a night bazaar, the mall is a magnet for tourists and locals.