Ratchawong pier, pier in Bangkok, Thailand

Ratchawong pier is a busy landing point on the Chao Phraya River at the edge of Bangkok's historic Chinatown district. It has two docking areas: one for public boats on the left and another for ferries straight ahead, both built for basic function and daily use.

Ratchawong Road began in the late 1800s as a trade route for Chinese merchants arriving by boat and unloading goods at river warehouses. Over generations, the area grew into a busy trading center with small shops and market stalls that continues today.

This pier marks the historical arrival point of Chinese merchants and shapes daily life here today. The narrow streets are filled with shop sounds and cooking smells, where small shops and shrines keep traditions of the Chinese community alive.

The pier is easy to reach by metro, bus, or boat along the Chao Phraya River, with access to several boat lines that use colored flags to mark different routes. Most services start early in the morning and run until evening, with boats departing about every 30 minutes.

Few visitors realize that Wat Chakkrawat, often called the Crocodile Temple, is just a short walk away and has housed live crocodiles in a pool for over 150 years. This unusual temple offers a surprising place to see an uncommon side of Bangkok.

• Location: Chakkrawat
• GPS coordinates: 13.73866,100.50455
• Latest update: February 9, 2026 08:22