Thailand loves its night markets. In Bangkok alone, you can find one running any night of the week in any corner of the city. That said, they tend to blend together, often selling the same trinkets, street food, and knockoff goods.
On my most recent visit to Bangkok, I was determined to find something a little different. That’s when I discovered Changchui Creative Park, a creative hub like no other, centered around a decommissioned airplane. As an aviation nerd and travel blogger, it was on brand and up my alley.
Here are my tips for visiting Chang Chui Bangkok Plane Night Market, including where it is, how to get there, and what to see and do.
Getting to Changchui Creative Park
Changchui Creative Park is in the Thonburi district, on the northwestern edge of Bangkok. While its location adds to the market’s offbeat charm, it also makes getting there a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re not familiar with the city’s transport options.
My Journey
Determined to save a few baht, I initially opted for public transportation. I took Bangkok’s MRT from my hotel in Thonglor to Bang Sue station and planned to hop on a local bus. Unfortunately, Bangkok’s infamous heat and crowded buses without air conditioning quickly made me reconsider. After a sweaty and uncomfortable few minutes, I abandoned this plan and hailed a ride-share through Bolt.
BOOK HERE: Best Rates at the Staybridge Suites Bangkok ThonglorWhy Ride Shares Are Best
Based on my experience, I highly recommend taking a taxi or using ride-share apps like Bolt or Grab to reach Changchui. The cost ranges from 150–300 THB ($5–9 USD), depending on your starting point and traffic conditions, and the journey typically takes 30–45 minutes. The convenience and comfort far outweigh the slight increase in cost, especially if you’re visiting in the hot season when Bangkok’s heat can be unforgiving.
Private Tour
Alternatively, and more comfortably, you can ask to have your day end at the Changchui Creative Park as part of a full-day private tour of Bangkok. This is the most comfortable way to get to the park and includes the added bonus of seeing several other great sights in the ciyt.
Changchui Creative Park – A Night Market Like No Other
While most Bangkok markets are all about food and souvenirs, Changchui Creative Park takes it a step further. Opened in 2017, it has quickly become a hub for artists, performers, and creators to showcase their work, combining shopping, dining, and culture into one unforgettable experience.
The park’s industrial-chic aesthetic, complete with repurposed shipping containers and whimsical art installations, sets it apart from the typical bustling market vibe. It’s a space that invites creativity and offers something for everyone, whether you’re admiring bold art pieces or discovering quirky vintage goods.
The large sculptures scattered around the park are worth a visit to Changchun Creative Park alone. This is highlighted by the neon sign and giant pooch welcoming you inside.
The true star of the market is its centerpiece: a massive decommissioned airplane that has been repurposed into one of the best Bangkok fine dining restaurants and cocktail bars in the city. The juxtaposition of industrial grit and creative flair makes it a must-see for a unique evening out in Bangkok.
The Plane at the Heart of Changchui
The highlight of Changchui Creative Park is a retired Lockheed L-1011 TriStar, an iconic long-haul jetliner from the 1970s and ’80s. Dubbed the “Whisperliner” by Eastern Airlines for its quiet takeoffs and impressively low cabin noise, the L-1011 was a marvel of engineering in its time. Known for its reliability, the fleet boasted an outstanding in-service rate of 98.1 percent, making it a favorite among pilots and airlines alike. Despite its technical success, financial challenges limited production to just 250 aircraft, marking the end of Lockheed’s venture into commercial passenger aviation.
As an aviation enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the allure of exploring this massive piece of aviation history that has now found a second life as the home of Na Oh Bangkok, a fine dining restaurant with a unique concept. Located in the belly of this once cutting-edge aircraft, the venue also features a quirky cocktail bar in the tail section, adding an inventive twist to the park’s creative spirit.
For someone like me, who appreciates both aviation and unique travel experiences, the chance to step inside the L-1011 and see it transformed into such an imaginative space was an unforgettable highlight of my visit.
The plane’s sleek exterior gleams under the market lights, while its interior has been transformed into a mix of luxury and whimsy. Stepping inside feels like entering a surreal world where aviation meets art. Whether you’re here for dinner or just a drink, the plane is a showstopper and worth the visit alone.
Exploring Changchui Creative Park
The Creative Vibe
Once inside the park, I was immediately struck by its one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Changchui isn’t your typical market—it’s a creative playground that blends artistry, culture, and commerce in a way that feels distinctly Bangkok.
With its industrial-style architecture, bold art installations, and open-air spaces, the park has the vibe of an edgy art gallery combined with the eclectic charm of a local market.
I spent time exploring the stalls, which showcased an intriguing mix of handmade crafts, quirky T-shirts, and vintage goods. One area of the park is a thrift-shop-style marketplace where independent creatives display their wares. From retro clothing to one-of-a-kind home decor and repurposed antiques, this section felt like a treasure hunt for anyone seeking unique finds. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a meaningful souvenir or simply admire the ingenuity of Bangkok’s artistic community.
While the park wasn’t as lively as I’d hoped during my Tuesday evening visit, I could still appreciate its artistic charm and quiet allure. For those looking to fully experience Changchui’s energy, plan your visit on a weekend when more vendors set up shop, and live performances bring the park to life.
From live music to performance art, the weekend scene promises an immersive cultural experience that transforms this creative hub into a buzzing hotspot. Whether you’re there to shop, marvel at the art, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Changchui Creative Park offers a refreshingly different take on Bangkok’s vibrant night market culture.
Chang Chui Plane Night Market Food & Drink
ChangChui Creative Park offers an eclectic mix of food options, blending traditional Thai street food with modern eateries and local chains. From ramen to craft beers and grilled delicacies, there’s something to suit every palate. During my visit, I was surprised by the variety of options, but unfortunately, many places were either closed or winding down for the evening. That said, the atmosphere and the choices I did sample more than made up for it.
I found a great spot at Sense Sky, where I enjoyed a couple of cold Changi beers while relaxing on their patio overlooking the park. The live performance by a local musician added to the serene yet vibrant vibe of the space, making it one of my favorite moments of the visit. The mix of good drinks and great music made it easy to soak in the park’s creative energy.
For food, there’s no shortage of unique dining options. ramen Ajisai ChangChui serves up hearty bowls of Japanese ramen, a comforting break from the usual night market fare. Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy Yes! Please Craft Bar, offering a selection of local brews in a laid-back setting.
Coffee lovers can stop by KOHEE Café, a trendy spot serving excellent coffee and pastries. Meanwhile, Olive Kitchen brings Mediterranean-inspired dishes to the table for those seeking something lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
For fans of classic Thai flavors, Yangkao Grill offers a fantastic selection of grilled meats and street food staples with a modern twist. The open-air seating and enticing aromas make it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic local tastes.
Even though not all of the eateries were open during my visit, the variety available and the artistic atmosphere of the park made dining here a memorable part of the experience. For the full ChangChui experience, visiting during the weekend is your best bet, when most food stalls and restaurants are open, and the park truly comes alive.
Na Oh Bangkok – Unique Bangkok Fine Dinning
Na Oh BangkokThe highlight of my visit to ChangChui Creative Park was undoubtedly my time spent at Na Oh Bangkok, a fine dining restaurant located inside a retired Lockheed L-1011 TriStar airplane.
As an aviation enthusiast, stepping into this unique venue felt like stepping into another world—one where elegance meets creativity in the most unexpected way. The airplane’s transformation into a restaurant was nothing short of brilliant, blending the charm of retro aviation with the allure of high-end dining.
Na Oh offers two distinct set menus—one with five courses and another with seven—ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 THB ($70–100 USD). There’s also a special dining area at the front of the plane that can be reserved for a unique, private dinner setting.
Though the menu sounded incredible, I decided to keep things low-key and headed straight to the bar located in the tail section of the plane instead.
Cocktails Inside a Plane
The bar inside the plane is one of the most unique spots in Bangkok. There’s something special about sipping on a meticulously crafted cocktail while seated inside a decommissioned aircraft. It’s an experience that perfectly encapsulates the whimsical spirit of ChangChui.
I kicked things off with their signature drink, a refreshing blend of Thai herbs and premium spirits that echoed the creative energy of the park. It was the perfect balance of local flavors and international refinement.
For those who enjoy a good whiskey, the bar offers an impressive selection of Japanese and international options. After a couple of cocktails, I couldn’t resist trying a glass of smooth Japanese whiskey, while I chatted with the bartender about the airplane’s fascinating transformation. It was a relaxed, yet sophisticated evening, surrounded by the park’s quirky, artsy vibe.
The whole experience at Na Oh Bangkok is a must for anyone visiting the park, especially if you’re looking for an unforgettable place to enjoy cocktails in Bangkok. But what’s even more interesting is how this space seamlessly blends the luxurious and the bizarre, fitting perfectly into the overall atmosphere of ChangChui.
Inside the plane, there’s no shortage of quirks, with taxidermy polar bears, a deer, and plenty of vintage sculptures and odd items that add to the creative, offbeat charm of the place. These eccentric touches make Na Oh feel right at home, adding a layer of unexpected fun to an already memorable dining experience.
If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind night out, whether for a fine dining experience or a more casual drink, Na Oh Bangkok inside the airplane is the perfect blend of creativity, luxury, and quirk that defines ChangChui.
Is Changchui Creative Park Worth Visiting?
Changchui Creative Park offers a refreshing break from Bangkok’s more traditional Thailand night markets. It’s an ideal spot for art lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking something off the beaten path.
Pros:
- The iconic airplane centerpiece is a must-see.
- Na Oh Bangkok offers a memorable fine dining and cocktail experience.
- The artistic vibe makes it unlike any other market in the city.
Cons:
- The location is slightly out of the way.
- Weekday evenings can feel quiet compared to weekends.
Tips for Visiting Changchui Creative Park
- Best Time to Visit: Go on a weekend to experience the market at its liveliest.
- Transport: Save yourself the hassle and opt for a ride-share.
- Reservations: Book a table at Na Oh Bangkok in advance if you plan to dine there.
- Explore the Details: Don’t miss the art installations and hidden gems scattered throughout the park.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
During my visit, I stayed at the Staybridge Suites in the trendy Thonglor area of Bangkok. This provided easy access to the city’s attractions and a jumping-off point to the Chang Chui plane night market. If you are searching for a modern and affordable place to stay in Bangkok, check out my full review of the Staybridge Suites Thonglor.
Bangkok’s Most Unique Night Market Experience
Changchui Creative Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Bangkok’s creative side. The combination of its artistic vibe, unique shopping opportunities, and the unforgettable Chang Chui Bangkok Plane Night Market makes it a standout destination.
Pair your visit with a cocktail or two at Na Oh Bangkok for a truly unique evening. Whether you’re spending 3 Days in Bangkok or exploring the city for longer, Changchui is a great addition to your itinerary.
For more travel inspiration, don’t miss my posts on Thai Airways First Class and the best Food in Taiwan from my 3 Days in Taipei adventure!
What say you?
Thoughts on visiting the Chang Chui Plane Night Market?
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