Thailand
Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Lhong 1919 is an important historical port in Bangkok.
In the 1800s, Bangkok was a powerful port city, engaging in trade with the Chinese Empire, Iran, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. To delve into this glorious era, a visit to Lhong 1919 is essential. Walking through this 312-rai (about 125-acre) port facility, where tons of goods were constantly loaded and unloaded, one realizes that the City of Angels is a heavyweight in Southeast Asian history. The site's revitalization, now featuring shops and restaurants, showcases how the metropolis innovates and transforms. History and culture enthusiasts will delight in exploring this former port, now transformed into a tourist attraction.
Historical notes
Originally named "Huang Chung Lhong," meaning "steam port," it was renamed Lhong 1919 by the Wanglee family to commemorate the year they acquired the property.
Construction of Lhong dates back to 1850, initiated by Sino-Thai businessman Phraya Pisansuphaphol. He was an ancestor of the influential bourgeois Pisolyabutra family, pivotal in Bangkok's urban development. The port hosted ships bound for expeditions to China, Hong Kong, and the British-controlled states of the Malay Peninsula.
In 2016, Lhong underwent redevelopment: port activities ceased, and the Wanglee family transformed the pier into a historical square, symbolizing Khlong San's identity. The square's inauguration on November 2, 2017, was presided over by the Minister of Sports and Tourism, attended by numerous political figures.
Visiting Lhong 1919
Lhong 1919 has adapted to the city's evolution. Firstly, preserving the port infrastructure as a monument of the past. Secondly, the Wanglee family developed the site to captivate tourists. It's a place that encapsulates both the quaint and trendy aspects of the capital.
The Port site
The port resembles a luxurious two-story mansion, blending Thai and Chinese architectural influences.
A visit to Mazzu's Shrine
Inside is a grand temple dedicated to Mazzu, the goddess protecting ships and sailors. The temple remains a popular site of worship today, where some kneel before the idol to seek favor and others burn incense. Visitors can explore period furniture and artifacts in the chapels. The shrine is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the complex.
Shopping at Lhong 1919
For some tourists, visiting the port is a chance to shop. A variety of boutique stalls occupy the ground floor, offering living room furniture, silverware, household accessories, luxury candles, and incense sticks. Whether shopping for balcony plants, updating your wardrobe, or picking up souvenirs from Bangkok, this place has it all.
Dining or enjoying a drink at Lhong 1919
Before leaving the complex, enjoy a hot drink in the refined tea room overlooking the river. Along the public pathway leading to Mazzu's shrine, food stalls await hungry tourists eager for smoothies or local pastries. For a full dinner, head to the adjacent Chinese restaurant.
Practical information
Opening hours
The site is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The best time to visit
Avoid Bangkok between July and October, the rainiest months. It's best to visit Lhong 1919 during the cool season from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and warm without extreme heat.
Getting there
Lhong 1919 is located in the historic district of Thonburi, in Khlong San, Bangkok. It's easy to spot as it stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.
To reach the square, take the BTS Skytrain and disembark at Saphan Taksin station. Sathorn Pier is located right at the station entrance. Board the next ferry departing for Thonburi. Typically, ferries depart every half hour.
