Hello everyone 👋

Over the past two months, I’ve been traveling back and forth quite often between Phuket and Tak Province. Along the way, I took the chance to explore some interesting places — and one of them truly stood out: Oh Poi Market.

This market isn’t just a place to shop, but also a charming local attraction. It opens only twice a week, on Saturdays and Sundays, and is a popular destination among both locals and tourists.

Located in Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi Province, Oh Poi Market is a morning riverside market that sits beside the peaceful Phachi River. One of its most beautiful traditions takes place around 7:30 to 8:00 AM, when monks gently paddle by on bamboo rafts to collect alms from visitors — a serene and meaningful scene that reflects local culture and spirituality.🙏🛶 Unfortunately, I arrived a bit late that day and missed the almsgiving ceremony. Still, the calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings made the visit truly worthwhile. ☀️🌿

The first thing that caught my eye was the colorful handwoven crafts decorating the entrance. Everywhere I looked, there were intricate patterns made from bamboo, yarn, and natural materials — it all felt very warm and welcoming.

One area was beautifully decorated with dozens of colorful yarn patterns, arranged like a rainbow on the bamboo wall. Many visitors stopped to take photos — and of course, I couldn’t resist either! 📸

The local stalls were built from bamboo and thatch, blending perfectly with the forest surroundings. Each vendor had their own unique display of handmade products — from traditional Karen clothing and woven bags to dreamcatchers and herbal balms.

There’s no pressure to buy anything. The sellers are kind and gentle, happy just to chat or share the story behind their crafts. It feels more like being welcomed into a community than stepping into a commercial space. 😊💬

Just as I was about to leave one of the stalls, I heard the sound of traditional music starting to play in the background. A group of local children, dressed in colorful Karen-style outfits, began performing a gentle cultural dance.

It wasn’t a big stage or a formal show — just a small bamboo platform shaded by trees, decorated with handmade ornaments and surrounded by smiling visitors.

The way they moved, slow and graceful, felt sincere and full of heart. It was touching to see how the community passes down its traditions to the younger generation in such a natural setting. 💃🎵

Some of the dancers looked a little shy, while others beamed with pride. I couldn’t help but smile as I watched — not just because of the performance, but because of the feeling it gave: a sense of being part of something deeply rooted and lovingly shared.

Before heading home, I wandered deeper into the market, enjoying the cheerful crowd and the smell of freshly cooked snacks in the air. The soft morning light filtered through the trees, making the entire place feel like a hidden village from a dream. 🌤️🌳

Everything looked so tempting that I couldn't help myself — even though I came alone, I ended up buying more snacks than I could possibly finish! 😅🍡

After filling my little tray with sweets and grilled meat, I picked a spot on one of the bamboo platforms by the river. The view was so peaceful, with trees swaying gently in the breeze and the river flowing quietly in the background.

I opened each little banana leaf packet like unwrapping a gift — sticky rice dumplings with shredded coconut, grilled pork with spicy dipping sauce, and a soft pandan jelly dessert. Every bite was flavorful, and everything felt fresh, homemade, and full of love.

Of course, I couldn’t eat it all alone — but the experience of tasting a little bit of everything while sitting in such a lovely, peaceful place made this moment one of my favorite memories from the trip. ☀️💚

As I continued walking through the market, I noticed something that touched me — groups of local children walking around quietly, collecting empty containers and leftover trash from visitors.

They didn’t make any fuss or ask for anything in return. Instead, they simply helped keep the market clean with calm dedication. It was a reminder of how closely connected this place is to its community. Everyone, young and old, contributes to keeping it alive and beautiful. 💚👧👦

After enjoying a generous helping of food and sweets — far more than I had originally planned to eat — I decided to take a slow walk to help everything digest. 😅🍃

As I wandered along the riverbank, I discovered a charming little art corner tucked under the trees. Local artists had set up colorful displays of painted coconuts, handmade keychains, and portraits inspired by daily life in the community.

One table even offered a small painting activity where visitors could sit and paint while listening to the sound of the river nearby. It was peaceful and inspiring — the perfect way to end a morning that had already been full of charm.

The artworks reflected the heart of the village: gentle, vibrant, and filled with identity. I loved seeing how creativity naturally bloomed alongside culture and community.

By the time I left Oh Poi Market, my hands were full, my stomach was happy, and my heart felt surprisingly light.

There’s something special about places like this — where things are simple, sincere, and surrounded by nature. You don’t need fancy buildings or grand attractions when you have fresh food, smiling faces, and a flowing river to keep you company. 💚

It’s not just a market. It’s a reflection of how a community can come together, share their culture, and welcome visitors with open arms and homemade sweets.

So if you ever find yourself in Ratchaburi on a weekend morning, don’t hesitate — wake up early, follow the path to Suan Phueng, and let yourself get a little lost in the beauty of Oh Poi Market. You’ll leave with more than just souvenirs. You’ll leave with a smile. 😊

Thank you for your support
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