The Maeklong railway built a commuter train to Bangkok back in 1905. The track they laid ran right through this market, which has been around for a long time. The vendors have adjusted their businesses around the train schedules instead of relocating to a different space. The stalls full of fresh seafood and other produce are kept right on the railway in baskets and, in some cases, on shelves that have wheels, which makes it convenient to move several times a day.
The Location
The peculiar railway market is quite close to many luxury hotels in Bangkok, Thailand, such as the ones belonging to chains like Chatrium Hotels & Residences. You can either haul a taxi or if you want to get the full experience you can opt to travel by minibus and by train.
The Train Schedule
Throughout the seven days of the week, and eight times per day, trains pass through the unusual market layout.
AKA Umbrella Pulldown Market
There is a three-minute alarm that alerts the vendors about the arrival of a train. It is the beginning of a chaotic three minute period when they out away their produce and pulls the awnings up, and the umbrellas down, hence the name.
Safety Concerns
A perfected system over the years, the vendors make sure that their buyers and other tourists are standing behind the safety line as the train whistles away through the market.
