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Following Nene Royal’s Footsteps: Exploring Naka Weekend Market in Phuket, Highlights and Travel Tips

Travel23 Sep 2026 19:14 GMT+7

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Following Nene Royal’s Footsteps: Exploring Naka Weekend Market in Phuket, Highlights and Travel Tips

Naka Weekend Market has become one of Phuket’s hottest landmarks after serving as the launching stage for“Nene Royal.”Nene Royal, the 16-year-old girl who created a sensation by winning the Golden Buzzer on the world stage of America's Got Talent (AGT) 2026,

For travelers and music lovers wanting to follow her path, this large night market offers a variety of street foods, shopping spots, live music schedules featuring the Ozone band, as well as Nene Royal’s background and updated Phuket travel guidance all in one place.

From a flea market to worldwide fame! Exploring the history of Naka Market, Phuket

Who would have thought that“Naka Weekend Market,”a popular night market near Central Phuket, was once just a small secondhand flea market run by locals, before becoming the island’s largest weekend night market.

ภาพจากเพจ Nakamarket-ตลาดท้ายรถนาคา-ภูเก็ต

The charm of Naka Market lies not only in its street food and fashion goods but also as a platform for youth to showcase their talents through open mic music stages.

This is where Nene Royal began, performing with the Ozone band on this stage before rising to international fame.

Naka Market Highlights: A paradise for foodies and shoppers all in one place

If you visit Naka Weekend Market, don’t miss the many zones catering to every lifestyle.

  • Street Food Heaven Hundreds of food stalls serve everything from spicy southern Thai dishes, fresh grilled seafood over charcoal, traditional Thai desserts, pork satay, fried ice cream, to fusion menus and trendy food trucks.
  • Shopping and Fashion Zone Here you'll find vintage clothing, beachwear, handmade crafts, stylish souvenirs, local Phuket specialties, all at affordable prices.
  • Activity and Skateboard Park Zone A space for sports enthusiasts and youth to exercise and socialize in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Live Music Stage Zone The nightlife entertainment hub with upgraded lighting and sound systems, welcoming talented musicians to enliven the market.

Check in at Naka Market, Phuket, and enjoy energetic live music from Nene Royal and the Ozone band.

A key attraction making Naka Market especially lively today is the live street music that draws both locals and tourists, featuring continuous performances by local bands.

A must-see show is the Nene x Ozone Band, led by Nene Royal, the 16-year-old singer and rock guitarist who made waves on the world stage of America's Got Talent 2026.

ภาพจากเพจ Nakamarket-ตลาดท้ายรถนาคา-ภูเก็ต

Besides Ozone, Naka Market hosts a variety of independent bands and artists offering continuous entertainment, such as

  • Ocean x Cos Nova (pop-rock and easy-listening indie band).
  • PloyFun (powerful acoustic-style singer).
  • Loma x Prawan (chill band perfect for dining evenings).

Check live music schedules and market opening hours

To make your trip worthwhile, here are the market’s operating days, hours, and music showtimes:

Details
Days and hours of operation
Notes
Weekend market
(full range of products and food)
Saturday - Sunday
16:00 - 23:00
Peak live music hours
18:30 - 22:00
Street food zone
Weekdays
Monday - Friday
16:00 - 21:00
Ideal for those
looking for a relaxed dining experience.
Performance schedule
Live music (main stage)
Saturday - Sunday
About 5 shows per day
Performances by Nene Royal and Ozone alternate weekly.

Because Nene Royal and Ozone sometimes travel for concerts abroad or in other provinces, it is recommended to check real-time show schedules on the Facebook pages: Nakamarket - Naka Weekend Market Phuket or Nene Royal’s page before heading out.

How to get to Naka Market (Phuket travel guide)

Naka Weekend Market is near Phuket city center and easily accessible by various transport options.

From Phuket town (about 3 km):

  • Local wooden minibus (rot songthaew) Take routes passing Virat Hong Yok Road or get off at Naka Temple stop.
  • Motorcycle or private car Set your Google Maps destination to“Naka Weekend Market.”Parking is available around the market.

From Patong Beach (about 15 km / 30-40 minutes):

  • Call Grab / Taxi / Tuk-Tuk The most convenient for tourists, fares range from 300 to 500 baht depending on the time.
  • Motorbike rental Ride over Patong hills towards Phuket town, then turn onto Virat Hong Yok Road.

From Kata - Karon beaches (about 35-45 minutes):

  • Grab / Taxi or rental car Take Chaofa West Road, then turn onto Virat Hong Yok Road. The market is opposite Naka Temple.

From Phuket Airport (about 30 km):

  • Airport Bus + Grab Take the Airport Bus to Central Phuket Mall (fare about 100 baht), then Grab or Tuk-Tuk for a 3-5 minute ride to Naka Market.

Visiting Naka Weekend Market offers more than just tasting delicious street food and picking up cute souvenirs; it’s a chance to experience charming live music and support talented Thai youth like Nene Royal on the global stage. If you plan to visit Phuket this weekend, be sure to add Naka Market to your itinerary for a truly enjoyable experience.

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