The Origin of the Name, Cho Am Phu
Many visitors are intrigued by the vibrant and bustling night market of Da Lat, known as Cho Am Phu. The name, which translates to ‘Ghost Market’, is a curious one, and its origin lies in the city’s past. In the 1970s, Da Lat was a sparsely populated mountain area, and the city had not yet developed to its current state. Local farmers would carry their produce to a makeshift market to trade and sell their goods. Those with home gardens had to travel long distances to sell their vegetables and fruits.
The market usually started around 11 PM and continued until the early morning hours or until their produce was sold out. At that time, Da Lat had a small population, and tourists were scarce. Although it was called a market, it was essentially an empty plot of land without any proper lighting. The thick fog, a symbol of Da Lat, added to the eerie atmosphere. With no streetlights, buyers and sellers relied on kerosene lamps to illuminate their goods and negotiate prices. The flickering lamps, amidst the fog and mountain backdrop, created an otherworldly ambiance, resembling the underworld, hence the name.
Cho Am Phu Transformed: A Vibrant Destination
Today, Cho Am Phu has shed its lonely and desolate past and transformed into a bustling tourist attraction in the heart of Da Lat. Brightly lit with modern lights, the market is a lively hub of activity. Here, you’ll find an array of delicious local specialties, such as grilled dried squid, grilled eggs, and sweet and hot soy milk. Indulging in these treats amidst the cool weather and night mist of Da Lat is an unforgettable experience.
In addition to the eateries, visitors can enjoy unique and affordable local delicacies like boiled corn, roasted sweet potatoes, and grilled squid, all while exploring the market. There are also various grilled delicacies, such as chicken wings and legs, and xien nuong (grilled meat skewers). For a heartier meal, stop by the food stalls for a hot bowl of crab soup or a generous serving of bap xoi (corn sticky rice).
Cho Am Phu is also a haven for dried fruit and jam lovers, offering a wide range of options, including the famous wind-dried Da Lat peach, strawberry jam, sweet potato jam, and more. As you wander through the market, you’ll also discover various renowned teas, such as oolong tea, jasmine tea, artichoke tea, bitter melon tea, and dandelion tea. Don’t forget to purchase some artichoke tea, a local specialty known for its health benefits and delightful flavor.
Beyond its culinary delights, Cho Am Phu also offers a variety of souvenirs and handcrafted items. You’ll find clothes and knitted goods like hats, gloves, and scarves, all at reasonable prices. Supporting the local artisans by purchasing these unique souvenirs is a wonderful way to remember your time in Da Lat.
Getting to Cho Am Phu
Cho Am Phu is conveniently located just 3 kilometers west of the Da Lat city center. You can easily reach the market by motorbike or taxi. From the city center, head west along Tran Hung Dao Street. At the roundabout, take the turn onto Ho Tung Mau Street, and then continue straight onto Tran Quoc Toan Street until you reach the Da Lat fountain. At the next roundabout, you’ll find Cho Am Phu on your right, at the turn onto Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street.
Cho Am Phu has evolved from a humble, makeshift market to a vibrant and must-visit destination in Da Lat. Its unique history, delicious cuisine, and charming atmosphere make it a memorable part of any trip to this beautiful city.
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