Sizihwan Beach, also known as Takao Beach during Japanese rule, is a popular recreational area located in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The beach is a black sand beach that sits right at the edge of the National Sun Yat-sen University campus and faces the open waters of the Taiwan Strait. It is surrounded by mountains, with Shoushan to the northeast and Shaochuantou Hill to the east.
Visitors can enjoy the beach’s glistening blue water, gorgeous sunset, and natural coral reefs.
The area is also known for its tropical atmosphere, with coconut trees swaying in the light ocean breeze. In the summer, the beach is full of activities, including sunbathing and volleyball.
Sizihwan is accessible by bicycle and on foot through the Sizihwan Tunnel, which was built from 1927 to 1933 and is itself a tourist attraction.
The Former British Consulate at Takao and the historic Lingsing Temple at the peak of Shaochuantou overlook Sizihwan Bay, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
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Ing Nam Sam Khok Riverside Market is a charming weekend flea market located in the Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Open Friday to Sunday from 9 AM to 8 PM, it’s a local gem known for its authentic, community-driven atmosphere.
Visitors can explore stalls selling fresh seafood, traditional Thai street food (e.g., grilled river prawns, som tam, Mon-style noodles), handmade crafts, antiques, and local produce.
The market is small and local, so expect a more intimate experience compared to larger tourist markets.
Originally named Sam Khok (“three mounds”), Pathum Thani was established around 1660 by Mon migrants fleeing Burmese rule during the Ayutthaya period. These settlers built thriving riverside communities along the Chao Phraya River, engaging in agriculture and pottery production, as evidenced by archaeological sites like the Tao Ong Ang Kiln Ruins.
In 1815, King Rama II visited the area and renamed it Prathum Thani (“City of Lotuses”) ...
Hua Takhe Old Market (ตลาดหัวตะเข้เก่า) is a nostalgic canalside community and marketplace in Lat Krabang District, eastern Bangkok. Named after the “crocodile’s head” shape formed by the confluence of Prawet Burirom, Lam Pla Thio, and Hua Takhe canals, this market dates back to the reign of King Rama V (late 19th century). It’s a vibrant yet laid-back spot with century-old wooden shophouses, street art, and a lively local vibe, perfect for a half-day visit, especially near Suvarnabhumi Airport (10-15 min drive).
Wander along the canal past traditional wooden houses, cross a graffiti-covered bridge for photo ops, and soak in the retro charm. The market blends daily life with creative spaces like art galleries and quirky shops, with cats adding to the charm.
Enjoy Thai street food like som tam, grilled skewers, and traditional desserts, or sip coffee at canal-side spots like Siyaek Hua Takhe Cafe. Many dishes reflect Mon culinary influences.
Rent a kayak (350 ...
Wat Sing is an ancient temple, built during the Ayutthaya period in the province of Pathum Thani, which is considered historically significant for the Sam Kok community. The Ayutthaya Chronicles mention the migration of the Mon people, to settle in the Sam Kok village and the temple of Wat Sing. This temple served as a refuge for Buddhist monks who fled the Burmese invasion, along with the Mon people.
Wat Sing is a temple closely associated with the Sam Kok community and has a longer history than the Mon people's settlement in the Sam Kok village.
The architecture of Wat Sing exhibits various art styles from the Ayutthaya period, which have been preserved and cherished by the Sam Kok community.
The Wihan Noi is a small rear temple constructed with Thai style brickwork and adorned with terracotta tiles. The front facade features a gabled roof, and the base of the temple is in the shape of a curved ship's hull, resembling a semi circular stupa. It retains the characteristics of a semi gable with small openings on ...
