The 135-Year-Old Market in the Heart of Hanoi: From a Modest Stall to the Capital’s Iconic Landmark

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market stands as the city's most bustling traditional market and a true icon. With a rich history dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty in 1889, this vibrant marketplace has been the beating heart of Hanoi's trade and commerce for 135 years.

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This area has witnessed many ups and downs of Thang Long – Hanoi and contains no less than the essence of the thousand-year-old capital. Dong Xuan Market, in particular, is a living testament as it was the site of the largest battle of Inter-zone I during the 60 brave and fiery days and nights of holding the enemy in Hanoi on February 14, 1947.

Today, Dong Xuan Market is still located in the center and retains the original architecture and style from the French period. The market has been expanded backward, with the Bac Qua area becoming a place for trading in food, fresh produce, fish, flowers, and ornamental plants. Stepping inside, a bustling atmosphere greets you with a mix of sounds: the hawking of traders, the lively chatter of shoppers, and the hum of passing vehicles, all blending to create a unique symphony of life. The stalls, lined up next to each other, display a myriad of goods, from clothing, shoes, and fabrics to household items, electronics, and souvenirs. Each stall is decorated attractively, drawing the attention of customers. The aroma of street snacks like fried cakes, fried sour spring rolls, and sweet porridge permeates the air, tantalizing the taste buds of shoppers, mostly the elderly and tourists.

Despite renovations, the front of the market retains the features of the five old bridges to preserve the familiar image of this century-old market in the heart of the capital. Trading activities here are now conducted in a civilized and modern manner. The sellers communicate politely and courteously, building trust and contributing to Dong Xuan’s reputation as an appealing cultural and commercial destination in Hanoi. More than just a place for trade and commerce, Dong Xuan Market also encapsulates the spiritual and cultural values that reflect the daily life of the Kẻ Chợ people. It is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital.

Dong Xuan Market – Hanoi’s Most Bustling Traditional Market

Having endured for over 200 years, Dong Xuan Market is also one of Hanoi’s cultural and tourist highlights.

In the past, the market only operated as a bi-weekly fair. However, due to increasing trade demands and the development of the market economy, it now operates daily from morning to evening.

In 1995, the market was rebuilt with three floors, covering a total area of nearly 14,000 square meters and accommodating around 2,000 business stalls.

The current Dong Xuan Market has a transaction and sales area, with multiple staircases and spacious walkways.

The sellers are always welcoming and friendly, offering enthusiastic consultations to visitors.

Clothing and fabrics are indispensable offerings at this market.

Handicrafts and souvenirs are also abundantly available here. Most of the products are sourced from China and offered at reasonable prices.

Dong Xuan Market is the largest distribution and trading center in Northern Vietnam, both historically and presently.

An extensive range of hats and caps are available, offering various styles and colors to choose from.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor from afar, a trip to Dong Xuan Market will leave you impressed by its diversity, richness, and unique cultural characteristics.

Stalls upon stalls display an array of shoes, offering a wide selection for shoppers.

Buyers can freely choose and find items that suit their needs.

Despite the passage of time, Dong Xuan Market, with its over 200 years of history, remains vibrant and bustling with sellers and buyers.

The market attracts mainly elderly shoppers.

Dong Xuan Market is not just a shopping destination but also an appealing and memorable spot that leaves a lasting impression of a vibrant and lively Hanoi in the hearts of visitors.

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