
Ben Ngu Market, constructed during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, serves as both a trading hub and a traditional commercial center. It’s a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local lifestyle. The market is situated on the banks of the An Cuu River, at the intersection of Phan Dinh Phung and Phan Boi Chau Streets. Originally, this land belonged to Tay Huong hamlet in Duong Xuan Ha village, but today it’s part of Vinh Ninh ward.
Prior to 1970, the market housed a small shrine and a stone stele dedicated to the hamlet’s deity. Unfortunately, the shrine was dismantled, and the stele is now located in a resident’s home across the river, where it continues to be worshipped.
While Dong Ba Market primarily caters to tourists, Ben Ngu Market is considered a local cultural icon of Hue, brimming with the unique colors and characteristics of the ancient capital. Consequently, prices here tend to be more reasonable compared to other city markets, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Ben Ngu Market is more than just a shopping destination; it’s the heartbeat of Hue’s community. The market offers essential daily items such as fresh seafood, produce, clothing, footwear, and even handicrafts for tourists.
The market’s uniqueness stems not only from its diverse product range but also from its reasonable prices, reflecting the sincerity and dedication of the vendors. As a result, it has become an ideal shopping spot for both locals and travelers.
Additionally, Ben Ngu Market holds a special connection to the stories of the “o” and “me” (elderly women) who have dedicated their lives to the market. Vendors like the snail seller and the herb seller have maintained their spots for years, becoming familiar faces to all. Delicious Hue specialties such as bánh bột lọc (cassava cake), cau candy, Hue jam, bánh ít trần (steamed sticky rice dumplings), bánh ướt nhụy tôm (shrimp paste rice rolls), and bánh bò trong (clear jellied cake) can be found here, captivating those who adore Hue’s cuisine. A visit to Ben Ngu Market is a must for anyone exploring the culture and cuisine of Hue.
Some tips when visiting Ben Ngu Market:
– The market is renowned for its friendly atmosphere, with no price gouging. The vendors, whether “o” or “me,” are always enthusiastic and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.
– For the freshest seafood and produce, arrive at the market early in the morning.
– You can purchase Hue specialties like cau candy, mè xửng (sesame candy), mắm tôm chua (fermented shrimp paste), and mắm ruốc Huế (Hue shrimp sauce) as souvenirs.
– Don’t miss the opportunity to visit nearby landmarks such as Phu Cam Cathedral (800m away), Tu Dam Pagoda (1.1km away), and An Dinh Palace (1.7km away).
A Glimpse into the Past: Rare Photos of Hanoi’s Oldest Market that Stood the Test of Time
Chợ Bưởi, one of the oldest traditional markets in Hanoi, is a bustling hub of commerce and a repository of the cultural heritage of the ancient Thang Long region. Despite the vicissitudes of history, the market has retained its unique periodic assembly format, drawing traders from far and wide to buy and sell plant and animal breeds, as well as local specialties and artisanal products.