Giant Swing, Bangkok - The Giant Swing in Bangkok by Night
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Giant Swing Bangkok

4.6
·3k reviews·, Thailand

A towering scarlet frame, the Giant Swing is an iconic Bangkok landmark with deep historical and cultural roots, offering a unique photo opportunity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
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Giant Swing, Bangkok - The Giant Swing in Bangkok by Night

Giant Swing Bangkok

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A towering scarlet frame, the Giant Swing is an iconic Bangkok landmark with deep historical and cultural roots, offering a unique photo opportunity.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"This iconic scarlet landmark is a must-see for its unique architecture and cultural significance, offering great photo ops."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the best angles

Get creative with your shots! Look for unique perspectives from nearby streets or rooftops for that perfect photo.

☕ Try the local tea

Don't miss Auntie Nids Coffee Shop for authentic Thai tea. It's a local favorite and a great refreshment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Giant Swing

The Iconic Giant Swing

Sao Chingcha

A towering scarlet frame, this historic landmark is a must-see for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Wat Suthat Thepphawararam

Wat Suthat Thepphawararam

Adjacent to the Giant Swing

Explore this magnificent temple, home to stunning murals and a serene atmosphere, right next to the swing.

Auntie Nids Coffee Shop

Auntie Nids Coffee Shop

Near the Giant Swing

Sip on delicious traditional Thai tea and other local drinks at this beloved spot, a favorite among visitors.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Giant Swing is a striking landmark, visiting during peak hours means you'll be sharing the view with many others. Consider an early morning or late afternoon visit to truly appreciate its grandeur without the hustle and bustle.

Beyond the Swing

The Giant Swing is a fantastic photo op, but it's best enjoyed as part of a larger exploration of the surrounding historic district. Plan to visit nearby temples and markets to make a full day of it.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning visuals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

trying famous Auntie Nids thai tea in Bangkok, thailand ?? ?Auntie Nids Coffee Shop - Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200 (Near Giant Swing) OPEN 6am-3pm (I think 7 days but unsure) - I suggest g...
@michaelfinch
581.3K likes • 11.7M views

📸 Capture the best angles

Get creative with your shots! Look for unique perspectives from nearby streets or rooftops for that perfect photo.

☕ Try the local tea

Don't miss Auntie Nids Coffee Shop for authentic Thai tea. It's a local favorite and a great refreshment.

what i eat in a day in Thailand?? ?Auntie Thai tea shop ? Auntie Nids Coffee Shop - Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200 (Near Giant Swing) - open 6am-3pm daily - I suggest going early to avoid li...
@michaelfinch
225.3K likes • 2.8M views
reddit.com

What to do for 2 weeks in Bangkok?

🚶 Explore the surroundings

The Giant Swing is in a historic area. Wander through nearby temples and markets for a richer experience.

⏰ Visit early to beat heat

Bangkok gets hot! An early visit means cooler temperatures and fewer people.

reddit.com

Which of the temples are worth visiting in a 2.5 day trip?

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the best angles

Get creative with your shots! Look for unique perspectives from nearby streets or rooftops for that perfect photo.

☕ Try the local tea

Don't miss Auntie Nids Coffee Shop for authentic Thai tea. It's a local favorite and a great refreshment.

🚶 Explore the surroundings

The Giant Swing is in a historic area. Wander through nearby temples and markets for a richer experience.

⏰ Visit early to beat heat

Bangkok gets hot! An early visit means cooler temperatures and fewer people.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Giant Swing is a visually striking and historically significant landmark in Bangkok, often praised for its unique architecture and cultural importance. Visitors enjoy its photogenic nature and the opportunity to explore nearby temples and enjoy local refreshments. Some find it to be a quick visit, best enjoyed as part of a broader exploration of the historic district.

"Very Beautiful Bangkok iconic at Sao Chingcha.

We are here for the Squid game event…
Recommended to come with public transport. But if you come by car still plenty of parking around with fee around 50฿ per hour.
A lot of local food with local price…"

Unplan traveller L.

"20 Mar 2025

It was nice in the evening. It's a good place to spend some time. Surrounded by beautiful flowers.

I am a travel agent and traveller You can contact me on my Instagram ID
Personal ID: mystry_scrt
Business ID: mercijourney"

Monica Tinna

"🏛️ Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha)

📍 Location: In front of Wat Suthat Thepphawararam, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok — directly across from Bangkok City Hall.

📏 Height: About 21.15 meters, made of massive teak wood.

🕰️ History:
• Built in 1784 during the reign of King Rama I.
• Originally used in a Brahmin ceremony called Triyampawai to honor the Hindu god Shiva and welcome Narayana’s descent to earth.
• The ceremony involved men swinging high to grab a money bag tied to the top beam — later discontinued due to safety concerns.

🎯 Today:
• The swing is no longer used for rituals but remains a symbol of Bangkok.
• It has been restored multiple times, most recently in 2006.
• Recognized as a national historic monument and a popular tourist photo spot."

A “A” Apinya

What People Like

Iconic scarlet structure
Historical and cultural significance
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Can be a quick visit
Crowds during peak times
Ceremonies no longer performed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Giant Swing is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest MRT station is Sam Yot, from which you can take a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride. Buses also frequently stop near Sao Chingcha, the area where the swing is located. Many visitors find that using ride-sharing apps like Grab is also a convenient option.

Yes, the Giant Swing (Sao Chingcha) is a prominent landmark in Bangkok and is quite easy to find. It's located in the Phra Nakhon district, a central area known for its historical sites. Just ask for 'Sao Chingcha' and most locals will be able to direct you.

Walking is a great way to explore the area around the Giant Swing, as many temples and markets are within close proximity. For longer distances or to escape the heat, consider using a tuk-tuk or a Grab car. The MRT station Sam Yot is also a good starting point for exploring the wider district.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, viewing the Giant Swing from the outside is free of charge. You can admire its impressive structure and take photos without any admission fee. If you wish to enter the adjacent Wat Suthat temple, there might be a small donation requested or a nominal entrance fee for certain areas.

The Giant Swing itself is a monument and is visible at all hours. However, the surrounding area and nearby attractions like Wat Suthat temple have specific opening hours, typically from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Auntie Nids Coffee Shop, a popular spot nearby, is open from 6 am to 3 pm.

There is no entrance fee to see the Giant Swing itself. It's a public monument. However, if you plan to visit the interior of the adjacent Wat Suthat temple, a small donation or a modest entrance fee may apply for certain sections.

📸 📸 Photography

For the best photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The soft light during these times creates a beautiful glow on the scarlet structure and minimizes harsh shadows. Early mornings also mean fewer crowds, giving you a clearer shot.

Yes, besides ground-level shots, consider viewpoints from nearby buildings or rooftops for a more dramatic perspective. Some cafes and shops in the vicinity offer elevated views. Capturing it with the temple in the background also makes for a classic shot.

For daytime shots, use a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. If shooting during golden hour, you might need to increase your ISO or use a wider aperture to capture the low light. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance colors, especially on sunny days.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around the Giant Swing is a culinary hotspot. Auntie Nids Coffee Shop is famous for its Thai tea.TikTok+1 You'll also find numerous street food stalls and local eateries offering delicious Thai dishes. Chinatown is also a short ride away for more diverse dining options.

Definitely try traditional Thai tea from Auntie Nids Coffee Shop.TikTok+1 Beyond that, explore the street food for classics like Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and various grilled skewers. The area is rich with authentic flavors.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Culture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and tradition, the Giant Swing and its surroundings are a goldmine. Dedicate ample time to explore Wat Suthat Thepphawararam, appreciating its intricate murals and the serene Buddha statue. Understanding the historical context of the Giant Swing's ceremonies will deepen your appreciation for this unique monument. Consider visiting during a local festival if your timing aligns for an even more immersive cultural experience.

Photographers & Instagrammers

The Giant Swing is a photographer's dream, especially with its striking scarlet color against the Bangkok skyline. Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light.TikTok+1 Explore different angles from the street and nearby buildings to capture unique shots. Don't forget to visit Auntie Nids Coffee Shop for a colorful drink that's as photogenic as it is delicious.

Foodies on a Budget

The area around the Giant Swing is fantastic for budget-friendly eats. Auntie Nids Coffee Shop offers affordable and delicious Thai tea.TikTok+1 Beyond that, dive into the abundant street food stalls for authentic and inexpensive meals. Exploring the nearby markets will also present numerous opportunities for tasty and economical snacks and meals.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Giant Swing

The Giant Swing, or 'Sao Chingcha' in Thai, is a truly iconic landmark in Bangkok. Erected in 1784 during the reign of King Rama I, it was originally used in a Brahman ceremony to celebrate the New Year. Two teams of young men would ride a wooden swing, attempting to collect a silver ball placed in a bag suspended high between the poles. This daring feat, which involved swinging up to 25 meters (82 feet) high, was a test of courage and agility. Sadly, the ceremony was discontinued in 1935 due to numerous fatalities, making the swing a powerful symbol of Bangkok's rich cultural heritage and past traditions. It stands as a testament to the city's historical religious practices and the bravery of its people.

Exploring the Sacred Grounds of Wat Suthat

Adjacent to the imposing Giant Swing is Wat Suthat Thepphawararam, one of Bangkok's oldest and most impressive temples. Founded in the early 19th century, it's renowned for its magnificent ordination hall (Ubosot), which houses a stunning bronze Buddha image called 'Phra Si Sakyamuni'. The hall's interior is adorned with vibrant, intricate murals depicting the Jataka tales, the previous lives of the Buddha. Don't miss the beautiful Chinese stone carvings and the colorful stucco figures that decorate the temple's exterior. The temple complex offers a peaceful sanctuary from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a glimpse into Thailand's spiritual heart.

A Taste of Bangkok: Auntie Nids Coffee Shop

For a delightful culinary experience near the Giant Swing, a visit to Auntie Nids Coffee Shop is a must. This charming spot, located conveniently close to the landmark, is celebrated for its authentic Thai beverages. As highlighted in several TikTok videos,TikTok+1 Auntie Nids serves up delicious traditional Thai tea, often described as tasting like a strawberry milk latte. The shop is open from early morning until mid-afternoon, making it a perfect stop for breakfast or a refreshing break during your sightseeing. It's a beloved local gem that adds a sweet note to your exploration of the Sao Chingcha area.

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