Young Thai barber transforms old bus into trendy barbershop
A 22-year-old barber in central Thailand converted a retired bus into an air-conditioned barbershop offering haircuts from just 40 baht, now serving over 20 customers daily in Uthai Thani province.
UTHAI THANI — A 22-year-old barber has captured attention by converting a retired passenger bus into a fully-equipped, air-conditioned barbershop offering budget-friendly haircuts and free Wi-Fi in central Thailand. Known as Luk Chang Barber and located in Nong Khayang district of Uthai Thani province, the creative salon has become a local favorite for its unique concept and affordable prices.
Owner Theerapong Karinta, nicknamed Thanwa, initially worked in construction with his father, who proposed a deal: if Thanwa seriously trained in barbering, his father would invest in an old bus to convert into a shop. After nearly a year of barber training in Nakhon Sawan province, Thanwa returned home to help his family renovate the bus into a functional salon complete with barber chairs, mirrors, air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Prices are exceptionally affordable—student haircuts start at 40 baht, adult cuts cost 60 baht, and trendy or new styles are 80 baht. The shop now serves more than 20 customers daily, with some days fully booked. Thanwa appreciates working close to home while pursuing a stable profession, noting that "people will always need haircuts when their hair grows." The engineless bus can still be towed to provide mobile barber services at other locations.