Buzz
Strolling through these markets to uncover the cultural essence of Hanoi during the days leading up to Tet has become an indispensable tradition for the capital's residents.
Discover three special markets worth visiting during Tet in Hanoi.
1. Hang Ma Antique Market
The vendors at this antique market can't quite recall when it first began, but around the 29th and 30th of every Lunar December, the market springs up on the sidewalks and even spills onto Hang Ma Street.
True to its name, the market exclusively sells antique items, ranging from genuine treasures to mere trinkets. The market isn't vast, comprising only about 10 to 15 stalls set up directly on the ground. From cracked bowls and chipped vases to time-worn religious artifacts, items are priced relatively high, catering to affluent antique enthusiasts.
During the bustling days leading up to Tet, people flock to the markets, reminiscing about times gone by. Shopping here isn't easy, partly due to the high prices and partly due to the wide variety of products. Therefore, it's essential to research thoroughly before visiting the market to make the best choices for yourself.
2. Doai Countryside Market
Visitors to Hanoi during Tet will be surprised to find rustic countryside markets right in the heart of the capital. One such market, aptly named Nua Market, is located in Binh Phu Commune (Thach That District), about 20 km from the city center.
With improved transportation, especially the completion of Thang Long Boulevard, it only takes about 20-30 minutes by motorbike to reach Nua Market for shopping and sightseeing. The market is nestled amidst lush green rice fields, with roofs made of thatched palm leaves, exuding the rustic charm of the Red River Delta region.
Unlike other markets, Nua Market doesn't have gates; there's only a small dirt road leading to it. The market usually convenes on the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd, and 27th days of the lunar month, serving as a trading place for residents of villages such as Canh Nau, Can Kiem, Chang Son, Huu Bang, Phu O, and Thach Xa.
Visiting Nua Market on the 22nd and 27th days of the Lunar December, you'll immerse yourself in the lively Tet atmosphere with a wide variety of goods. This is when people from all over bring their finest products for exchange and trade.
3. Bustling Buoi Market
With a long history, although Buoi Market has now transformed into a commercial center, it still hosts interesting markets every month and at the end of the year.
This market still exists within the city center to this day, with main market days falling on the 4th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 24th, and 29th of the lunar month. The highlight of Buoi Market is its offering of plant varieties, animal breeds, agricultural tools, and artisanal products. It has also become a leisure destination for bird and flower enthusiasts from all over Hanoi.
During the Lunar New Year, Buoi Market bursts with various flowers, showcasing a myriad of colors and gathering different species from the forests to the plains within the heart of the capital. On the last market day of the year, the 29th of the lunar December, Buoi Market used to sell large livestock such as cattle, horses, and buffalo, as this was the only time of the year when such animals were available.
However, due to market expansion, the sale of large livestock at Buoi Market is no longer as vibrant and distinctive as before. A remarkable feature of Buoi Market is the ancient Banyan tree still standing proudly next to it, which used to be where people gathered cattle, horses, and buffalo into herds for buyers to choose from.
By Tran Huyen/Viettq.vn
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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourJanuary 19, 2017
