The Oldest Market in Quang Nam: Over 300 Years Old and Still a Source of Pride for the People of Quang Province.

Nestled in the sunny and windy lands of Quang Nam, Noi Rang Market stands out as a unique gem, embodying the very essence of rural life. Tucked away along the tranquil country roads, this market is not just a hub of bustling trade but also a sanctuary that preserves the cultural values and distinctive traditions of the Quang people.

Administrator

2 December, 2024

The name “Nồi Rang” is said to originate from a fascinating story, as narrated by the elders of the land. During the southward expansion of the Vietnamese, this area was chosen as a settlement, and the village decided to establish a market with a unique rule: the first trader would have the market named after them. Legend has it that during a harsh season, when the newly established market by the riverbank saw no trade due to crop failure, an old farmer, out of desperation, molded and fired earthen pots to sell. In a twist of fate, he moored his small boat at the riverbend and stepped ashore to inaugurate the new market, thus giving birth to the market’s name, which has endured to this day.

The name Nồi Rang might evoke a sense of heat and dryness, reminiscent of the sunny weather in Quang Nam. In the past, Nồi Rang market consisted of two rows of coconut-thatched sheds, primarily serving as a trading post for Chinese merchants selling traditional Chinese medicine and French traders dealing in liquor. It also attracted vendors from nearby river regions, such as Hoi An, Dien Ban, and Thang Binh, selling various goods.

Like many other markets in Quang Nam, Nồi Rang has endured historical ups and downs. During the resistance war against the French, the market couldn’t function due to the risk of bombing whenever people gathered. Despite this, the market persisted, and at night, people would carry firewood to the riverbend, from where it would be transported by boat. After the Geneva Agreement in 1954, the market resumed operations, only to be disrupted again in 1964 due to intense warfare. Since the liberation, Nồi Rang has attracted more traders, and the range of products has diversified to include cosmetics, clothing, footwear, consumer goods, and food items to meet the region’s demands.

In 1992, a new, spacious, and well-planned market was constructed by the authorities near the old market site, preserving the name Nồi Rang as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. This market has left an indelible mark on the memories and lives of countless generations of locals.

Today, most of the traders in the market are women from nearby poor villages like Duy Phuoc, Duy An, and Duy Thanh. They gather here to sell a variety of goods, including chicks, ashes, fabrics, and fruits. The market usually starts at 5 am and wraps up early by 9 am. As the roosters crow, these women row their boats to Nồi Rang, located at the confluence of rivers from Hoi An, Dien Ban, and Duy Xuyen, making it a bustling trading hub.

Despite existing in the midst of modern life, Nồi Rang retains the quintessential characteristics of a traditional rural market, with rows of stalls selling fresh produce, live seafood, spices, dried goods, and handicrafts. A visit to Nồi Rang offers not only a vibrant shopping experience but also a chance to indulge in Quang Nam specialties such as Quang noodles, Cao Lau, pork rolled in rice paper, and various folk cakes.

Located not far from the riverbank, Nồi Rang market has been relocated from its previous location by the Thu Bon River. Boats laden with goods dock here, and the lively calls of traders echo from the river to the market. The vendors, mostly kind-hearted and sincere women, have their unique marketing style, which is understated yet profound.

Nồi Rang market stands as a testament to the commercial and cultural development of the people of Quang Nam. If you ever find yourself in this region, don’t forget to pay a visit to this market to uncover its captivating stories and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.