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Chinatown
Chinatown of Bangkok was formally an area called "Sampeng", started when the Chinese merchants moved in 1780s after vacating the land where the Grand Palace now stands. In 1863, King Mongkut commanded the construction of New Road (or Charoen Krung Road) which runs over six kilometers from the Royal Palace till it drops straight into the Chao Phraya River, just south of Krung Thep Bridge now. The Chinatown expanded along Charoen Krung, Krung Kasem and the third road, the Yaowarat Road which was built between Charoen Krung and Sampeng.  
Bangkok's vibrant Chinatown district runs along Yaowarat Road from Odeon Circle, where a huge ceremonial Chinese gate unmistakably marks the entrance, up to the Ong Ang Canal, which marks the outer boundaries of the royal district. Yaowarat Road itself is lined with many gold shops, and Chinatown is indeed one of the better places to shop for gold. However, just off the road in either direction is a whole other world where, it is said, you can find just about anything. Chinatown is an easy place to explore on foot, and in fact there really isn't any other way. Our own suggested walking tour takes in many of the sights of Chinatown, as well as the Indian market at Phahurat and the flower market further on.  
Chinatown is historic home buildings to many examples of the architecture of Bangkok's early years. About 14% of the buildings in the district have been designated as historical landmarks. Most of them are off on side streets. One of the most well known is the is the Tang To Gung gold shop on Sampaeng Lane around Mangkon Road.
Sampaeng Lane is Chinatown's original main street which is a small narrow alley which runs from the Phahurat Market all the way down to Songsawat Road. The lane is too small for cars, and is now a crowded market selling mostly inexpensive household items. Near the Tang To Gung gold shop is a very old Chinese pharmacy that is definitely worth a look.
 
The easiest way to reach Chinatown is by boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier and walk up Ratchawong Road to Sampaeng Lane or Yaowarat Road. You can also alight at the Harbor Department Pier, which is closer to Odeon Circle; or you can also use Memorial Bridge Pier, right at the flower market.
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