Neighbouring districts are (from north clockwise) Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bang Rak, Khlong San (across Chao Phraya River), and Phra Nakhon.

Sampheng Lane is depicted on the back of series 15 20 baht banknotes, to commemorate an important post-World War II visit by young king Rama VIII[3] (accompanied by HM's brother, Prince Bhumibol, with his ever-present camera).

It is believed that the name Samphanthawong was derived from Wat Samphanthawongsaram, the temple near the district office when it was first built.

Along both sides, gold shops and Chinese restaurants: noodles, rice, dim sum, bird's nest soup are found.

More shops, especially those selling fruit and Chinese traditional medicine, can be found in the small lanes branching off the main road.

There are many shops and stalls along Yaowarat, Sampheng (now Wanit 1), and Charoen Krung Roads, especially at night and during weekends.

The small lanes inside the blocks were fully packed with stalls operating on Saturday nights till Sunday mornings, but it is now closed as part of a pavement cleanup campaign in March 2015.