🚶♀️ Exploring Song Wat: From Birkenstock Art to Havaianas Luck
I’ve been to Bangkok’s historic Song Wat Road more times than I can count, but this trip was a solo adventure focused on the area’s vibrant event scene. My target: the Birkenstock “The Art of Walking – Grounded in Nature with Suntur” exhibition, which I managed to catch right before it closed.
The event, which ran from November 18th to December 7th, was hosted at the beautiful Chinese House—a perfect setting for a collaboration with the popular artist Suntur.
📍 Finding the Chinese House (Quick Tip!)
Since “Chinese House” is not on Google Maps, use Masjid Luang Kocha Isaha as your GPS target, you’ll walk in on the “soi” (lane) next to Gu Long Bao. You’ll then see signage directing you to the event (next to Saani Thai Massage), and the entrance is conveniently located next to the Pasaya Lifestyle shop.
The Birkenstock Experience: A Journey of Socks and Sandals
Upon arrival, the check-in process was immediate and functional: I scanned a QR code, added Birkenstock as a friend on LINE, and received three digital coupons. The next steps, however, were an exercise in following slightly unclear instructions:
Shoe Check: I was directed to a free locker area to deposit my own shoes.
The Ground Floor (“The Hourglass”): I started on the ground floor, which featured an exhibition detailing the history of the first Birkenstock pair.
The Sock Saga: After viewing the exhibition, I was given a new pair of socks. When I asked if I could wear my own, the staff said it was better to wear theirs. I should have removed my own socks before walking in to The Hourglass exhibition, because the sand component used in The Hourglass exhibition floor dirtied my socks. I went upstairs, removed my own socks (which were already dirty from the walk), cleaned my feet, and put the new ones on. Since my own socks were slightly damp after I wiped them to get rid of the dirt, I had to stuff them into my bag. Staff later mentioned at the exit that I could keep the event socks or discard them in the bin near the locker after a single wear—a total waste, so I definitely kept them!
The Upper Floor: Upstairs was a small café and a fitting area/photo/video booth. I initially tried on a pair of sandals in my size and immediately removed them. I only realized I was supposed to wear them for the photo/video booth later. I placed my order for the free drink at the cafe and then put the sandals back on while waiting for the previous visitor to finish.
The Art of Walking (and Waiting)
The photo/video booth was the main attraction. I finally got in and was asked to walk on a treadmill-like surface, moving quickly towards the front to avoid falling off. I was then told the action was meant to be a relaxed “stroll in the park,” but the setup resulted in a very brisk walk being captured on video.
Once finished, I could scan a QR code to download the “walk” video, and I was advised to take a picture of the QR code as the file might take a while to load.
The coupon entitled me to a drink; I opted for the less-sweet matcha latte, which was decent but not spectacular. I noticed a lack of garbage bins, so both myself and another visitor ended up returning our used cups and plates directly to the counter staff.
Final Impressions & Hidden Perks
The quieter weekday visit allowed for a generally smooth experience, though the operational flow had minor hiccups. For instance, I needed to remind staff about my souvenir, and when I inquired about the event postcard (after seeing another guest with one), the team seemed momentarily unsure if I had received one. Given the complexity of event logistics, I anticipate the ground crew will quickly get up to speed to ensure a consistently excellent experience for all visitors, especially during busier weekends.
The photobooth staff seemed to assume I was local, admitting he would have spoken in English if he had known I was a non-local.
Bonus Perk: There’s a 300 baht cash voucher coupon on the LINE app, valid until December 31, 2025.
👟 A Lucky Stumble: Havaianas Exhibition: Break the Rush
My Song Wat exploration had a delightful bonus! Right after leaving the Chinese House, I stumbled across the “Havaianas Exhibition: Break the Rush” at Fastfoot Café, Song Wat, walking towards the Ratchawong pier.
This fantastic, casual exhibition runs from November 14th to December 14th, 2025 on the second floor of the cafe, inviting visitors to “take a break from the rush.”
What to See & Do:
Art Showcase: The exhibition features works by five artists—including Guide Wuttinan (Wuko), Po Kritin (Tanpopoe), and Ping Manthana (HUUYAOW)—who reinterpret flip-flops with their own unique styles.
Limited Edition Art Toy: Pre-order a collector’s item in collaboration with Thai artist Golf Pitchaya (7,990 baht) at www.havaianas.co.th.
Special Promotions:
- Buy a pair of flip-flops and get two pins and four charms free (normally sold for 150 baht each!).
- New Launch: The new Havaianas Slim Split shoe (1,390 baht) is available, featuring a sleek design and vibrant colors, exclusive to Thailand.
Song Wat continues to prove itself as a fantastic hub for pop-up cultural events, blending its historic charm with modern experiences. Do check out these events before they end this weekend!
Keep a Lookout for the Elephants! (A Longer-Term Treat)
Whilst you are there, you might stumble on the beautiful, painted elephant statues of “The Elephant Parade” displayed at various locations along Song Wat and Talad Noi. Unlike the temporary brand exhibits, this open-air art exhibition is part of a larger, ongoing movement.
This is a fantastic social enterprise that raises awareness and funds for Asian elephant conservation, with proceeds from statue auctions going toward organizations like Elephant Family.
📅 Note: The Elephant Parade runs from November 2025 until February 2026, so you have plenty of time to hunt for all the colorful statues after the Birkenstock and Havaianas exhibitions close!
