Top 7 coolest things to do in Yangon

Change is afoot in the central Midtown area of Yangon, where you can get a glimpse of traditional Burmese city-slicker life and nourish your soul, too.

  • Paul Ewart
  • September 2018

1. The Rough Cut

Yangon’s go-to hipster hangout, this café-cum-bar and arts venue is loved by locals and expats alike. It hosts a slew of creative events, ranging from edgy photography exhibitions and inspiring poetry slams to comedy (a true rarity in Yangon); plus, there are open-mic nights every Thursday and indie movie screenings on Sundays. You’ll want to come back.

19 Minn St, Sanchaung, +95 09 961 337 278

Experience the colonial charm of Yangon

2. Win Star

Famous among the resident population, Win Star is definitely a great option for a social vibe. Spread over two floors, it’s a short walk north of People’s Park (which boasts a cracking view) and is the biggest restaurant on the Sanchaung strip. They have an English menu so you’ll know what you’re ordering even if your knowledge of the local lingo is limited.

Sanchaung St, Sanchaung, +95 9 788 877 712


3. Shwedagon Pagoda

It’s widely agreed that if you haven’t visited this iconic bell-shaped temple, you haven’t really been to Yangon. The spiritual heart of Myanmar, this massive, 110m-tall golden stupa – constructed 2,500 years ago – is said to enshrine hairs from the Buddha and is crowned with more 4,500 diamonds. Visit at sunset when it’s cooler and the fading daylight offers the best snaps.

Singuttara Hill, Dagon


7. Phoenix Myanmar Lethwei Gym

Get a peek into local culture with a high-intensity workout here. The ancient Burmese martial art of Lethwei (similar to Muay Thai in Thailand), also known as Burmese bareknuckle boxing, has seen a recent resurgence in popularity, with both locals and foreigners stepping into the ring for a go.

Thein Phyu Stadium Stadium, Thein Phyu Rd, +95 9 964 300215