Bầu Market has a long history, initially starting as a small village market but growing over time to become a prominent market in the region. During the 1930s and 1940s, it was a bustling hub, attracting traders from neighboring provinces, especially during festival days. Bầu Market is also an integral part of the cultural life of Phủ Lý’s citizens, as referenced in a folk poem: “Meeting at Bầu Market, offering betel at Sở Kiện, a bond formed through a gift.”
Over the years, the market has changed locations several times and was inactive for extended periods. However, the name “Bầu Market” was eventually restored, replacing the former name of “Phủ Lý Market” (previously known as Trấn Market). This decision not only preserved cultural values but also honored the city’s historical evolution.
Phủ Lý Market is conveniently located on Lê Lợi Street, in the heart of Minh Khai Ward, with easy access from National Highway 1A. The market operates from 3 am to 9 pm, catering to the shopping and entertainment needs of both locals and visitors.
Today, the market is a bustling and modern commercial center in the city of Phủ Lý, Hà Nam Province. It boasts a sturdy steel structure, consisting of a three-story building and a five-story building, housing approximately 1,000 kiosks that cater to the diverse business needs of traders.
Beyond being the largest shopping center in Hà Nam, Bầu Phủ Lý Market is also a fascinating tourist attraction and entertainment hub. The market is divided into three distinct areas: Area A, B, and C, each specializing in different types of goods.
– Area A: Offers essential goods at affordable prices.
– Area B: Spanning the largest area, it consists of three floors. The first floor features a variety of dry goods, stationery, shoes, fruits, and religious offerings; the second floor showcases high-end fashion and beauty products; while the third floor provides gym, spa, and entertainment services.
– Area C: Comprises five floors, with floors three to five dedicated solely to parking, ensuring a convenient shopping experience.
At Phủ Lý Market, you can indulge in a diverse range of shopping options, from clothing and accessories to beauty products. Additionally, it’s the perfect place to discover and purchase unique Hà Nam specialties, such as chuối ngự bananas, cá kho niêu đất (fish cooked in a clay pot), and bánh đa kê Hà Nam (Hà Nam-style rice crackers with grilled bananas).
In addition to the daytime shopping experience, Phủ Lý Market also hosts a vibrant night market, commencing at 1:30 am and concluding around 4 to 5 am. This nocturnal market primarily caters to wholesale traders dealing in agricultural produce and dried goods, supplying goods to markets within the city and neighboring districts.
Located near Phủ Lý Market is the historic Bầu Temple (Thiên Bảo Tự), which has stood for over a thousand years on Nguyễn Văn Trỗi Street in the Hai Bà Trưng Ward. The temple serves as a cultural and spiritual hub for generations of Phủ Lý residents, forming a complex of scenic spots, relics, entertainment, and cultural experiences that enriches the visit to Phủ Lý Market.
With its prime location and unique blend of shopping, culinary delights, and cultural offerings, Phủ Lý Market is not just a vital commercial hub but also an enticing destination for travelers seeking to explore the traditional and modern charms of Phủ Lý city.