Hatyai may be the name most travellers recognise, yet just a short drive away lies Songkhla—an old port town with a gentler rhythm and a history that runs deep. Once known as Singgola, “the city of the lion,” Songkhla grew beside its vast lagoon and flourished as a trading hub. Today, that same waterfront remains the heart of a town quietly reinventing itself. Along just two main streets, century-old shophouses have transformed into creative spaces, cafés, studios, and galleries, giving Songkhla a pulse that feels both nostalgic and new.

 

One of the city’s most eye-catching landmarks is the vivid-red waterfront warehouse Hub Ho Hin, once a working rice mill and now a symbol of Songkhla’s revival. Its distinctive name even inspired a renowned Thai film director to name his production company—proof that creativity here spills far beyond the local arts scene.

 

Walk a little further and murals appear everywhere: on alley walls, old façades, and quiet corners. These street artworks narrate Songkhla’s identity—its fishing heritage, multicultural past, and everyday humour—while adding colour and warmth to the town’s peaceful streets.

 

Cafés have bloomed across the old town too, bringing a soft, contemporary energy. Some are set inside beautifully restored houses; others face the lagoon with breezy views. They form part of a wider creative current that also includes new art galleries. One standout is Titan Project Space, founded by a contemporary artist from Chiang Mai under the name Ok Nakorn. The gallery’s quiet courtyard at the back opens onto the water, offering one of the most atmospheric photo spots in town.

 

For a deeper trip into Songkhla’s long history, step inside Nakhon Nai Museum. This 300-year-old wooden home has been lovingly preserved and opened to visitors free of charge. Inside, antique collections gathered over generations fill the rooms, while soft light and aged textures create beautiful corners for photographs.

Another essential stop is the Songkhla National Museum. More than just a museum, the building was once the residence of the local governing family, constructed in a Sino-influenced architectural style that reflects centuries of trade and cultural exchange. Wandering through its courtyards feels like walking into the region’s living past.

 

Before leaving, taste one of Songkhla’s most beloved treats: kanom khai, a simple egg cake made from flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, traditionally baked in a charcoal oven. Humble ingredients become something fragrant and addictive in the hands of local bakers. Once a neighbourhood snack, it has now grown into a national favourite, with Songkhla-style kanom khai sold across Thailand.

 

Quiet yet full of character, Songkhla is crafting its own creative story—one street, one gallery, and one old house at a time.