Inside Thailand’s Maeklong Railway Adventure, Where Train Runs Through A Market

You have likely observed trains travelling near rivers, ponds, cities, villages, or mountains, and may have even experienced such journeys through scenic locations. But have you ever witnessed a train passing through a narrow street lined with shops on both sides? Vendors and customers must be cautious of their feet whenever a train passes through the heart of a market, just inches away from bowls of food and other items on display. The Maeklong Railway in Thailand cuts directly through the middle of Hoop Rom Market in Samut Songkhram as it travels between Wongwian Yai and Bangkok, often eliciting astonished reactions from tourists.

Mae Klong Market is one of Thailand’s largest fresh fish markets, and vendors swiftly pull back their stalls and goods whenever a train passes, returning them to their original positions once it has gone by. Stalls closest to the tracks are equipped with retractable awnings, facilitating the process and earning the market its nickname, ‘The Folding Umbrella Market.’.A megaphone alerts people that the train is approaching, while the train sounds its horn as it passes through the market to ensure the track is clear.

The video also shows a scene of the same market. A man is standing in the middle of the track, recording a video. As the train approaches, he quickly steps aside, but the train passes so closely that he has to move back completely to allow it to pass. The video also includes a shot taken from above, likely captured by a drone.

Interestingly, the market existed before the railway, having operated since the 20th century. The railway line was later constructed through the middle of the market and was even used to transport goods to and from the stalls in its early days. The train covers its 40-mile route eight times a day and is one of the slowest in Thailand, travelling at under 30 mph. Hoop Rom Market, which stretches 100 meters, is one of the region’s major tourist attractions and is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. The market offers seafood, vegetables, fruits, fresh and dried food, meats, and various other goods.