The train that drives through a market!

As far as incredible shopping venues go, the Folding Umbrella Market in Thailand might just be the most dangerous in the world.
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At the very least, it's definitely one of the most fascinating.

The Maeklong Railway runs for nearly 67km between Wongwian Yaim, Bangkok and Samut Songkhram in central Thailand. The Maeklong Railway Station is located at the Samut Songkhram province end, the popular travel attraction is set up on both sides of a 100-meter stretch of train track.

Market vendors have devised a long row of umbrellas and awnings, which extend right over the tracks and shelter them from the heat and other elements and are able to be rescinded on call.

Shoppers and tourists saunter through the markets, along the train tracks, many taking photos or jostling for a position in anticipation of the coming scene.

Then, the loud horn of a train punctuates the air, alerting you to step back and watch the awe-inspiring display comes to life.

The vendors quickly fold up their awnings, some scooping up the goods touching the track rails. Everyone evacuates the line as the train slides through, with seemingly centimeters to spare.
Then, once the train has safely passed, everything is unfolded and it's business as usual.

To see this amazing railway station on your next trip to Thailand, see all our Thailand deals here