For long-term residents, international students starting their life in Ayutthaya, and Thai food enthusiasts who love the local vibrancy, this time we’re focusing on ‘Ayutthaya Asian Supermarkets’ and introducing a curated selection of real shopping spots.
From large malls and deep local markets loved by residents in Ayutthaya, to authentic Asian supermarkets in Japan that perfectly capture the ‘authentic Thai atmosphere’ – we’ll thoroughly explain the freshness of produce, the variety of local ingredients, and essential shopping tips you should know.
Central Ayutthaya
📍 Address: 129/1-3 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู Tambon Khlong Suan Plu, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000 Thailand
Opened in November 2021, this is one of Ayutthaya’s largest integrated shopping malls. Featuring a modern architectural design inspired by pagodas, its open and borderless space exudes a sophisticated ambiance, unlike what one might expect from a mall in the Bangkok suburbs.
For long-term residents, this place is truly an oasis for daily life. It houses the Robinson department store and Tops supermarket, making it a one-stop-shop for everything from grocery shopping for home cooking to purchasing daily necessities. The food court, in particular, is large and offers a wide variety of local delicacies, making it a safe choice even for Thai food beginners.
However, during weekends and events, the vast parking space often fills up, making it extremely difficult to find a parking spot. Also, while many Japanese restaurants are present, some customers have noted inconsistencies in the freshness and fat content of raw fish (like salmon). When eating seafood like sushi, it’s wise to be a bit selective about the restaurant you choose.
Jaoprom Market
📍 Address: 3 9 Thanon Uthong, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000 Thailand
Located in the heart of Ayutthaya’s old city, this deep local market is truly the ‘kitchen’ for locals and residents. Tourist souvenirs are almost non-existent; instead, you’ll find fresh meat, fish, vegetables, and local daily necessities. It’s an unmissable spot for international students and residents who want to experience ‘authentic Thai daily life’ untouched by tourism.
The best time to visit is definitely early morning. A local way to enjoy it is to buy hot ‘grilled bananas’ or Thai-style congee from the stalls lining the market entrance and surrounding streets for breakfast. Don’t be deterred by the appearance; if you bravely try it, you’ll be surprised by a deeper flavor than you imagined. For daily necessities, check out the Amporn Department Store located inside the market.
However, there are precautions unique to crowded local markets. Pickpockets or suspicious individuals may approach you while you’re eating or shopping, so never let your guard down regarding valuables. It’s a golden rule to carry your backpack in front of you and keep your cash in separate compartments.
Asia Super Store
📍 Address: 2nd Floor, 1-8-2 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0072, Japan
From here, we introduce authentic Asian supermarkets where you can feel the vibrancy of Ayutthaya even while in Japan. ‘Asia Super Store’ in Tokyo’s Shin-Okubo area (closer to Higashi-Shinjuku Station) is a long-established grocery store frequented by Thai international students and residents in Japan. Step inside, and it feels exactly like being in a local supermarket in Thailand.
Particularly noteworthy are its overwhelming selection and beautiful display. You’ll find a wide array of fresh herbs like holy basil, green papaya, dill, and kaffir lime leaves, which are difficult to find in typical Japanese supermarkets. Furthermore, they offer niche snacks like ‘Khao Tom Mat (steamed sticky rice with banana)’ and ‘Khanom Mor Kaeng (Thai-style custard),’ along with lunchboxes (except in summer), allowing you to enjoy authentic local flavors.
Prices are higher than local ones due to location and import costs (e.g., Ya Dom priced around 300 yen), but the ability to purchase seasonings that elevate home cooking, such as Thai Knorr pork bone soup base and chili in oil, is a significant benefit. Payments are cash only, so be sure to bring plenty of bills when you visit.
Asia Super Store Osaka
📍 Address: 5-6-6 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0041, Japan
Good news for Thai food enthusiasts and international students in the Kansai region! ‘Asia Super Store Osaka,’ which opened in the lively Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, is a noteworthy spot with a rich selection of ingredients from various Asian countries, primarily Thailand. Thai staff work in the store, and the local language is spoken, creating an authentic atmosphere.
The store features not only classic instant noodles and frozen foods but also ingredients that get cooking enthusiasts excited, such as fresh durian and fresh Southeast Asian vegetables. On the second floor, there’s a Thai sundries section, perfect for those looking for spice jars or local tableware.
Prices naturally reflect Japanese import market rates, but it’s still well worth a visit to find niche seasonings and spices not typically seen in other import food stores. The staff are also friendly and happy to explain how to use any unfamiliar spices. It’s an ideal place for weekend shopping, where you can easily immerse yourself in foreign food culture.
[Column] Smart Shopping Tips for Long-Term Residents: Utilizing Local Ingredients!
Whether living in Ayutthaya or cooking at home in Japan, mastering the use of local ingredients and seasonings is the secret to enriching your diet. The balance of ‘spicy, sour, and sweet’ characteristic of Thai cuisine is, without a doubt, determined by the quality of fresh herbs and seasonings.
For example, fresh vegetables bought at Jaoprom Market in Ayutthaya are inexpensive, but holy basil and kaffir lime leaves can be costly at Asian supermarkets in Japan. Therefore, it’s recommended to always keep long-lasting ‘chili in oil paste’ and ‘powdered consommé (Thai Knorr version)’ on hand. Using these as a base, you can easily create authentic Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, or pho soup.
Furthermore, while bulk buying is common at markets and Asian supermarkets, many unusual snacks and sweets (like coconut-based Khanom) have short shelf lives, so it’s good to try a little bit based on your mood for the day. While searching for your desired ingredients, fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
