The Weekend Market: A Haven for Eco-Friendly Delicacies

Spanning an area of 44,800 square meters, Jing Jai Market is an open complex, divided into three main areas: an organic farmers’ market, a handicraft zone, and a culinary and café space. Each area is designed to optimize interactive experiences and encourage environmentally friendly consumption.

From Idea to Reality: A Decade-Long Journey of Development

The creation of Jing Jai Market was not an overnight endeavor. The story began with the “Central Tham – Better Together” program initiated by Central Group, one of Thailand’s largest retail corporations, with a mission to foster sustainable community economic development. The goal was to directly connect farmers with consumers, eliminating middlemen, while simultaneously preserving traditional industries.

After initial experiments in Udonthani, the Jing Jai Farmers’ Market model was introduced to Chiang Mai and expanded in 2018. By 2023, Jing Jai Market had evolved into a complete ecosystem, integrating a farmers’ market, an arts zone, a dining area, and an exhibition center – all operating under “low-carbon” standards.

Jing Jai Gallery, a cultural space within the market premises, hosts activities such as art exhibitions, short film screenings, ethnic music performances, and workshops, transforming the market into a crossroads of commerce and creativity.

What You Can Buy at Jing Jai Market

Jing Jai Market is a treasure trove of indigenous products, ranging from fresh produce to exquisite handicrafts. Under the shade of lush trees, each stall emerges as an integral part of the Lanna community’s lifestyle.

Organic Produce – From Farmland to Consumers

At the Jing Jai Farmers’ Market zone, farmers from Chiang Mai and neighboring provinces sell their organic fruits and vegetables directly to consumers. From green vegetables, carrots, and purple cabbage to sweet potatoes and Riceberry purple rice, all products are grown using clean, pesticide-free, and preservative-free methods. Customers not only purchase fresh produce but also learn about the farming stories from the growers themselves.

Handicrafts

The Rustic Market area, home to skilled artisans, showcases a plethora of handmade treasures, including hand-painted ceramics, woven fabrics, and products made from bamboo, rattan, and recycled wood. Each item embodies a unique cultural identity, combining aesthetic value with the spirit of reuse and environmental protection.

Some artisans even organize workshops within their stalls, allowing visitors to experience the processes of pottery and fabric weaving, thus gaining a deeper understanding of Lanna cultural traditions.

Regional Specialties – Flavors of Northern Thailand

Sai ua (sausage), nam phrik (chili dip), and nutrient-rich purple rice are among the favorites of international visitors. Besides their delicious taste, these specialties are also packaged in biodegradable materials, making them ideal souvenirs.

A Culinary Journey in a Green Oasis

The cuisine at Jing Jai Market is a symphony of tradition and innovation. The dining area is nestled beneath tall trees, with tables and chairs made from recycled wood, surrounded by the aromatic scents of Northern Thai specialties.

From khao soi (chicken curry noodles) and khanom jeen nam ngiaw (rice noodles with coconut milk dip) to organic vegetarian dishes, all meals are prepared using local ingredients and traditional recipes. Many eateries use biodegradable materials such as paper bowls, bamboo straws, and biodegradable bags – a significant plus in the eyes of international visitors.

If you’re looking for a relaxing break, the cafés here offer herbal teas, local fruit juices, and Arabica coffee grown in the mountains of Chiang Rai – a refreshing treat that also supports highland farmers.

A Weekend Destination for International Visitors

Every weekend, Jing Jai Market welcomes thousands of visitors, with over 60% being foreign tourists. They come from Europe, Asia, America, and beyond, often choosing to visit the market early in the morning when the air is still cool and fresh produce is abundant.

Young people are especially drawn to this place not only for the delicious food but also for the “insta-worthy” green spaces and artistic backdrops. Many photographers have chosen this market as a setting for their inspirational photo shoots on sustainable living.

More than 200 farming households and dozens of artisan groups rely on Jing Jai Market for their livelihood. With each purchase, a portion of the value returns to the community through training programs, technical support, and local brand promotion.

Jing Jai is not just a successful commercial model but also a paradigm for a new type of community tourism – where economy, environment, and culture thrive in harmony.

Tips for Visiting Jing Jai Market

– Go early (7–10 am) to avoid crowds and get the freshest produce.

– Bring your own cloth or tote bag to reduce plastic bag usage.

– Carry cash, as not all stalls accept electronic payments.

– Chat with the vendors to learn about the origins and making of the products, especially handicrafts.

– Take your time to explore each area thoroughly, as the market is quite extensive, and each section has its unique charm.