Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai
Discover Jing Jai Market in Chiang Mai, an organic and sustainable farmer’s market offering a bounty of fresh produce, quality clothing and crafts from local designers, and an authentic Thai experience.
Still relatively new on the Chiang Mai market scene is the gorgeous-in-every-way Jing Jai Farmer’s Market. Styled as an organic and sustainable farmer’s market, the Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai is definitely one to add to your holiday itinerary.
As you know, I love the Chiang Mai night market – the buzz, the bargains, the crowds, and the street food. However, if you’re looking for more quality, more sustainability, and more style, Jing Jai Market is the way to go!
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Where and When are the Jing Jai Markets?
The Jing Jai farmer’s market Chiang Mai is held every Saturday and Sunday from 7am to 1pm – the perfect way to kick off your weekend. Located just a stone’s throw away from the Old City – on Assadathon Road – finding your way to Jing Jai is a breeze. You could grab a red truck (‘songthaew’ – a local shared taxi), a Grab car, cycle, or even stroll. It’s just 1.5 miles (approximately 2kms) north of the Old City, so easily accessible. It takes just a few minutes in a car, or about 25 minutes on foot. The footpath is pretty good all the way.
From Nimmanhaemin the easiest thing to do is hop in a Grab car – it’s only a couple of hundred baht.
What makes the Jing Jai Markets different?
You may ask, “What makes the Jing Jai Market stand out from the numerous markets in Chiang Mai?” Well, where do I even begin! The essence of Jing Jai lies in its soulful authenticity and its steadfast commitment to sustainability. A haven for organic produce lovers, Jing Jai Farmer’s Market Chiang Mai is one of the few places where you can truly engage with the local farmers and artisans who pour their heart and soul into what they offer. Jing Jai is awesome not only for the freshness of the produce, but also the sheer variety on offer. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect avocado for your breakfast, or rare herbs to add zing to a meal, or an interesting fruit you’ve never tried before, Jing Jai delivers.
So yes, you’ll find a dizzying array of fresh organic fruit and vegetables, more scrumptious cooked breakfast options than you could ever hope to eat, and some of the most gorgeous clothing and craft items in the city. Oh, and a great selection of coffee options – perfect for weekend moringa! Truly, this place is a veritable wonderland for the senses in every way. In the five weeks I’ve spent in Chiang Mai on this latest trip, the Jing Jai market has become my weekend staple – I buy all of the snack foods that I’ll want for the week ahead, plus breakfast and some treats. It’s truly scrumptious!
The Best Bit: Food!
However, the Jing Jai Market isn’t limited to just mouthwatering food and drink. It’s also home to an array of local artisans and craftspeople showcasing their work. From intricate pottery, handmade soaps, beautifully woven textiles to eco-friendly products, it’s the perfect place to grab some sustainable, unique souvenirs and gifts. You can chat to the farmers. Talk to the tailors. Sip coffee with the coffee roasters. There’s plenty of shade for you to sit in, and all the good vibes!
As you may have picked up from some of my previous posts, I love mango sticky rice, and there’s a gorgeous little stall here that sells miniature Thai food dishes made into magnets! Mango sticky rice, pad Thai, the local Northern Thai favorite khao soi, and tom yum. Look out for the delightful wares of ‘Uncle Jiew’ and tell him I said ‘hi’ 🙂
Now, let’s talk about the ambiance. The Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai radiates an irresistible charm. With its clusters of rustic wooden stalls, a quirky open-air layout, and the welcoming smiles of the local vendors, it’s a delightful feast for the senses. It’s much calmer here than the hustle and bustle of the night markets – there’s a real sense of community. All the vendors are committed to reducing plastic and waste in general, and there’s a shared spirit of working together for a better outcome for all.
The Organic and Sustainable Farmer’s Markets
There’s a saying in Thai, “Kin dee, yuu dee, mee suk” meaning “Eat well, live well, be happy.” And that’s precisely the philosophy you’ll encounter at Jing Jai. This isn’t just a market; it’s a reflection of the Chiang Mai community’s spirit and a testament to their love for good food, quality products, and sustainable living.
For the eco-conscious travelers out there, Jing Jai will feel like a breath of fresh air. They’re committed to reducing plastic usage and promoting recycling. So don’t forget to bring your reusable shopping bags and coffee cups!
For me, the magic of Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai lies in the connections you make. Whether it’s sharing a laugh with a friendly vendor as they passionately describe their product, or discovering a hidden gem tucked away in a corner, every visit is an adventure. And each time, I leave with a heart full of joy, a bag full of delicious treats, and the anticipation of what I’ll discover next time.
So next time you’re lucky enough to visit Chiang Mai, take a morning off from the typical tourist trail and head to the Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai. Spend a morning losing yourself in its vibrant lanes, indulge in the fresh produce, and carry home not just bags full of goods but also a wealth of experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve left this beautiful city. Trust me, once you visit Jing Jai, you’ll be planning your next trip back before you know it!
