Yangon, Myanmar | Beyond Tourist Spots: Unique Things to Do
Yangon is surprisingly vibrant—it’s Myanmar’s largest city, with a mix of colonial charm and urban energy. As a former British colony, its downtown is dotted with grand English-style buildings and churches, making you feel like you’re wandering through Europe. After spending 3 days here, I discovered there’s way more to do beyond just sightseeing! Tourist Spots I Visited (For Reference) 📍 Shwedagon Pagoda – Entry 30,000 MMK, but I went after 5:30 PM and wasn’t charged. 📍 Sule Pagoda – 10,000 MMK. Located downtown; nice to see from outside (no need to enter). 📍 St. Mary’s Cathedral – A Catholic church that’s technically closed, but the guard let me in. Surprisingly modern inside! 📍 Bogyoke Aung San Market – A souvenir market. Good for killing time if you’re into shopping. 📍 City Hall – Not open to visitors, but the exterior is impressive. Cool Non-Touristy Experiences 🌟 🚂 Circular Train Ride If staying near Hood Hostel, it’s a 5-min walk to Central Station. Two daily departures: 8:50 AM & 10:20 AM (800 MMK, ~2.5-hour loop). Hop on anywhere—observe local life, vendors selling snacks, and the city’s outskirts. ⛴️ Ferry Ride on the Yangon River Depart from Pansodan Ferry Terminal (400 MMK for locals / 2,000 MMK for foreigners). Open-air boat, 20-min ride—see the contrast between wealthy and impoverished riverside areas, passing ships, and seagulls. 🚲 Cycle Rickshaw Tour Through the Slums Take the ferry to the other side, where rickshaw drivers wait. 5,000 MMK for 30 mins (set a timer—some may overcharge). Best with a friend (not recommended solo due to safety). ☕ Rio Coffee & Brunch Right next to Sule Pagoda, with a balcony view of the stupa and street life. Coffee from 4,500 MMK, strong AC, comfy seating—great for relaxing. 🍖 Strand 2023 Bar & BBQ Riverside location with European-style architecture views. Opens at 5 PM—perfect for sunset drinks & photos. 🛍️ Junction City Mall Head to the 5th-floor restaurants for a balcony view of colonial churches & Shwedagon Pagoda in the distance. Final Thoughts Yangon is more than just pagodas—it’s a city of contrasts, where colonial history meets local life. Skip the usual tourist traps and try these offbeat experiences for a deeper feel of the city! #Wanderlust #OffTheBeatenPath #MyanmarTravel #Yangon #HiddenGems #AlternativeTravel