UNESCO has just added Songkhla and Nan to its global Creative Cities Network, putting Thailand’s southern spice and northern crafts on the world stage. The new designations celebrate how local culture can drive creativity, sustainability and community pride – and they’re a big win for both cities’ creative economies.
Songkhla: the south’s kitchen of ideas
Down by the lake, Songkhla has long been a crossroads of Thai, Chinese and Malay culture – and its food tells that story beautifully. From fragrant curries and seafood markets to the traditional snacks found in the city’s historic quarter, Songkhla is a living cookbook of southern flavours.
Now officially a City of Gastronomy, it joins Phuket and Phetchaburi as a culinary capital recognised by UNESCO. The title gives a global platform to the city’s chefs, fisherfolk and food producers and helps preserve the age-old recipes that define the region’s identity.
Nan: art in the air
Surrounded by lush mountains and centuries of tradition, Nan is redefining northern Thai crafts. The province is known for its temple murals, silver filigree, delicate woven textiles and wood carving – all of which reflect a deep sense of place. As a new City of Crafts and Folk Art, Nan is set to develop creative tourism projects and cultural exchanges that support artisans and keep local skills alive. Officials say the focus will be on linking village-level craftsmanship with contemporary design to attract younger makers and global attention.
A growing creative nation
With Songkhla and Nan now on board, Thailand counts nine UNESCO Creative Cities – each spotlighting a different form of innovation and heritage:
- Phuket – Gastronomy (2015)
- Chiang Mai – Crafts & Folk Art (2017)
- Bangkok – Design (2019)
- Sukhothai – Crafts & Folk Art (2019)
- Phetchaburi – Gastronomy (2021)
- Chiang Rai – Design (2023)
- Suphan Buri – Music (2023)
- Nan – Crafts & Folk Art (2025)
- Songkhla – Gastronomy (2025)
Together, these cities show how Thailand’s creative energy stretches far beyond its capital – from the craft studios of Chiang Mai to the sound stages of Suphan Buri and the seafood stalls of Songkhla. The network encourages collaboration between member cities worldwide, promoting culture not just as tourism bait but as a foundation for sustainable growth.