Located 700 km north of Bangkok, nestled in the mountains, Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of ancient temples, Lanna kingdom history, and delicious food such as the northern specialties, Khao Soi curry noodles. 

Often overlooked when thinking about Thailand, Chiang Mai holds a special charm, the quiet and tranquil kind. Chiang Mai won’t be as loud as Bangkok or as bright and full of energy as Phuket, but it will be a much needed escape from the crowd. 

Like many cities and regions in Thailand, the laid-back Chiang Mai is also famous for the daytime and night markets. Let us take you to get to know the one-of-a-kind Jing Jia Market and other popular spots nearby.

Read More: 15 Things to Do in Chiang Mai for Malaysian Travelers

Get to know more about the famous Jing Jia Market before visiting through these 5 interesting facts:

Just like the name suggests, Jing Jia Weekend Market is a weekly event, held every Saturday and Sunday, from early morning until around 3 pm. Located in the Jing Jia Valley, this is a community space filled with shops, eateries, and working space in the midst of a lush garden.

Not only a place to shop and dine, this little oasis also actively hosts performances by local and international artists in the space. The unique semi open air compound can also be enjoyed daily, even when the weekend market is not held.

Unlike your usual tourists’ market in Thailand, in Jing Jia Weekend Market, you will not find imported, mass produced products. Jing Jai means sincere heart, and in this weekend market, that is exactly what you’ll see.

You will meet vendors selling organic vegetables, natural soap, handmade jewelry, handmade goods, cotton and linen clothing, bags, ceramics, fragrances, and small local shops. All were made by hand and created with love and good intentions.

Jing Jia Weekend Market successfully promoted the local artists, craftsmen, artisans, and small local brands, giving a dedicated space to meet the curated local and international customers. 

A place to see and to be seen without the overwhelming sensation. With soft music playing in the background, surrounded by trees, and pampered by the endless options of art, crafts, and delicious food and drinks, Jing Jia Weekend Market has become a community gathering where friends, family, and like-minded people meet and interact.

Breaking the language and cultural differences, locals and international visitors come together and unite through the same excitement, friendliness, and the love of quality products.

Jing Jia Valley and Jing Jia Weekend Market is a thoughtful project from the Central Group, a renowned Thai business group with decades of experience. With an impressive portfolio ranging from hotels, retail spaces, shopping malls, restaurants, and department stores, Central group always delivers the world class standards to all of its projects.

Located along Atsadathon Road, north of the Old City in Chiang Mai. Jing Jia Weekend Market is very accessible by tuk-tuk, red songthaew, and Grab taxi. If you’re coming straight from Chiang Mai International Airport, a car/taxi ride will take you there for a short 10-15 minutes ride. 

To make sure you’re able to enjoy time spent in Jing Jia Weekend Market, here are some tips:

The Jing Jia Weekend Market opens every Saturday and Sunday, from 6.30am - 3.00pm. It is always better to come early, be there at 7.00am to get a softer sunlight, less crowd, and more time to explore the market in peace. Do note that the crowd will increase after 11.00am.

Situated outdoors, the heat could be strong. So make sure to wear breathable and comfortable clothes and footwear. Slab on some sunscreen, wear your sunnies, and hat. Keep yourself hydrated at all times. 

Smaller vendors and stalls don’t take card payment, so do prepare some cash in hand.  Shop around before purchasing, the goods and offerings are limitless thus the temptation would be high, shop intentionally, and set a budget before visiting. 

The food and drink stalls are another temptation for the foodies to face. For a more eco-friendly dining experience, you can bring your eating utensils to use, and a takeaway container and tumbler, in case of leftovers.

Read More: 12 Best Hotels in Chiang Mai, Thailand For Your Staycation

The strategic location of Jing Jia Weekend Market also allows you to explore nearby tourist attractions, all within a 10-minute drive from the market, such as:

This Buddhist temple, which was built in 1527 was one of the most prominent temples in Chiang Mai. Famous for its massive unplastered castle-style brick chedi and wood-carved assembly hall. 

Experience the old Chiang Mai blending harmoniously with its modern day. In Chiang Mai old cities, the ancient walls and moats surrounding the city can still be seen. Walking a street filled with ancient temples and turning a corner to rows of cafes and shops. A magnificent contrast to witness. 

Nimman Road is a famous commercial hub in Chiang Mai. The area is populated with trendy cafes, shopping centers such as Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre and One Nimman, co-working hub for the digital nomads, and lively rooftop bars and live music lounge at night.  

Read More: A Guide: The Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

The quiet Chiang Mai will fill your days with trips to ancient temples, lively night markets, and the ever popular and well curated Jing Jia Weekend Market to spend your Saturday. Consider Chiang Mai as your next travel destination and make sure to stop by during the weekend. 

Plan a trip to Phuket, Thailand with Traveloka, the #1 All-in-one Travel App in SEA, makes travel fun and effortless. Find flights, hotels, airport transfers, and attractions all in one place with the best price guarantee and 24/7 Live Agent Support. Start planning today and let Traveloka handle all your bookings!