When mentioning "Takua Pa," a small town in Phang Nga province, many people may recognize the name as an area that was once affected by an unforgettable disaster decades ago. However, today, let's get to know "Takua Pa" from a different perspective. To be honest, our trip this time was not for tourism but for work. However, since we had a full day to spend in Phang Nga, our team decided to create memories with this place.

Our journey begins with a flight to Phuket International Airport. Upon arrival, we capture a memorable photo with a landing aircraft. The highlight of this experience is the opportunity to capture a unique perspective of the aircraft as it touches down on the runway. To achieve the perfect shot, we patiently wait for the opportune moment, as aircraft arrivals occur every 15-20 minutes. After securing our photographic souvenir, we embark on a leisurely stroll along the beachfront, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of local life and the bustling tourist scene. As we continue our exploration, we contemplate the possibilities that lie ahead, eager to discover the hidden gems that Phuket has to offer.

Beyond the popular tourist area where visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and taking selfies with airplanes, a short walk leads to a beach used as a mooring point for local fishing boats. The atmosphere is relatively peaceful, as most fishermen have already returned to shore and are resting. This was around 11:00 AM.

Having captured the essence of Phuket's stunning coastline, our true destination lay in the neighboring province of Phang Nga. Guided by the local knowledge of our van driver, we embarked on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of Phang Nga: the Ko Khonun Iron Bridge and the ancient town of Takua Pa. Unfamiliar with these two locations, we readily agreed to let our driver act as our guide for a day of exploration in Phang Nga. And so, our adventure began...

The first check-in location is the Saphan Lek Kok Khanun.

The Kok Khanun Iron Bridge is a bridge over the Takua Pa River, located in Kok Khanun village, Bang Nai Si sub-district. It is approximately 200 meters long. According to historical records, the bridge was built in 1968 by Chuti Boonsung Co., Ltd. using scrap metal from a mining ship to provide convenience for workers and the public before the company ceased operations. Currently, the bridge is used by motorcycles crossing between the two banks. While taking photos, we had to make ourselves as small as possible to allow motorcycles to pass. However, one thing we noticed was that everyone who drove past us smiled at us, which made us feel warm.

The bridge's striking iron structure serves as a focal point, captivating passersby and prompting them to stop for a commemorative photograph. The contrast between the bridge and the vibrant green fields is particularly striking, especially during the rainy season when mist may gently drift over the hills, creating a picturesque scene.

The bridge is wide enough for two motorcycles to pass each other.

After capturing the atmosphere of the Iron Bridge, our van driver took us to the Takua Pa Old Town. However, since it was a regular day, there was no walking street. The images we captured were of the buildings and houses in a quiet state, so quiet that it was almost eerie. Nevertheless, we could still sense the presence of the community through the occasional glimpses of people.

The second stop of the day is the old town of Takua Pa.

Fortunately, I arrived at the right time to witness the breathtaking sunset. The atmosphere was truly captivating. While we were taking photos, we saw members of the community cycling for exercise. Along the way, there were old tuk-tuks and houses that provided picturesque photo opportunities.

The dilapidated old wooden house (slightly eerie) but with the courage to have a hip photo with him, so I ran across the street to the other side to let my brother take a picture as a souvenir. 555 We started walking from here as the first place. Then slowly walk, slowly experience the atmosphere of the old town. At Takua Pa, little by little, gradually immerse ourselves in this community.

According to our van driver, who kindly volunteered as our guide today, Takua Pa, or Talat Yai Subdistrict, was once a thriving town several decades ago. During that era, a significant number of Chinese immigrants established mining operations in the area, leading to a bustling economy and convenient transportation. The town was densely populated, and most houses were built in the Sino-Portuguese shophouse style, which has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who come to take photos with the distinctive architecture.

Besides the charming buildings and houses, the local way of life is another attraction that makes tourists like us stop to take pictures as souvenirs. It makes our journey today seem more alive when we meet people who are going about their daily lives.

Along the way, there were occasional processions of cyclists, which enlivened the otherwise quiet atmosphere of our day. As we walked, we saw murals on the walls of houses and pillars, telling the story of Takua Pa.

After walking for a while, you will see this corner. It is an exhibition corner that tells the story and history of Takua Pa through photographs. It is another corner that is suitable for getting to know Takua Pa. Walking on, you will come to a three-way intersection where you will see a painting that may be the largest in the old market. It is a painting that tells the story of Takua Pa's prosperous mining past. The vibrant colors are so eye-catching that you have to stop and take pictures.

Along the way, there are paintings depicting the stories and lifestyles of the people of Takua Pa. Although the atmosphere may be a bit quiet, it offers a different kind of experience.

The streetscape is a mix of old and new buildings, with the distinctive Sino-Portuguese style featuring rows of pillars and arches on the ground floor, supporting the second-floor balconies and creating a covered walkway known as an "arcade." In the evening, Takua Pa becomes a bustling market area, with oxcarts and crowds filling the streets, a stark contrast to the earlier tranquility.

After walking around Takua Pa for about an hour, our stomachs started to rumble. Luckily, we stumbled upon a bustling evening market just in time. We grabbed some delicious snacks before heading to our accommodation.

Although our visit did not coincide with the walking street day, we were able to experience another aspect of the old town, which still retains its unique identity as Takua Pa. Although it is an old town that people rarely think of, anyone who has the opportunity to experience it will fall in love with it without realizing it. Take a leisurely walk to experience the way of life, study the architectural design of the surrounding buildings, see the smiles of the local people, and try the local food, making this trip one that brings joy every time we think of it.