Markets are the soul of Ho Chi Minh City and play an essential role in people’s lives. You can find many markets in the city, which differ fundamentally in all kinds of goods. Besides the iconic ones like Ben Thanh Market or the traditional local wet markets like Ba Chieu Market and Hoa Hung Market, people still love those reserved for a particular culture. Among the most unique and outstanding, the Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City should be a must-see place.
How to Get to the Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City
The market stands at the Central Garden building at 328 Vo Van Kiet, Co Giang Ward, District 1. It is quite easy to get there by motorbike, bus, taxi, or Grab.
Opening hours
9 AM – 8 PM (From Monday to Sunday)
How Did the Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City Appear?
After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia faced a crisis and began to carry out reforms. Then, the price escalated dramatically, and there was an increased demand from the Russians for clothes and life necessities. The Vietnamese who studied and worked in Russia then brought things from Ho Chi Minh City to Russia to sell and make profits.
Later, the demand for Russian goods also experienced a rise in Ho Chi Minh City. The Russian Market appeared in 2000 when the Central Garden came into operation.
What to Buy at the Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City
Much like its name, the Russian Market reflects the country from the exterior decoration to the atmosphere inside. Inside the market, there are 3 floors: the first two are for trading, and the last one is for packaging. The market includes a coffee shop, restaurant, and souvenir shop serving different people. Also, the total area of the market is approximately 2,000 square meters, consisting of about 100 booths offering different goods.
Most of the goods are from Russia or produced in Vietnam to export to Russia. For a long time, the Russian market in Ho Chi Minh City has been known as the paradise of warm clothes like overcoats, windbreakers, and big-sized ones that attract Vietnamese going overseas, Russians, and expats in Vietnam. There are also lots of high-quality sportswear displayed in kiosks. Being designed to be worn in cold weather, the clothes are in plain color, thus suited to many people’s preferences and styles.
Another interesting thing you can find in this market is that most of the sellers used to study and work in Russia. They can speak Vietnamese, English, and Russian. The warm and friendly atmosphere is also a factor that makes the market much loved.
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And last but not least, don’t forget to go around the market, enjoy the trading scene, and shop for something helpful or pleasant. Russian dolls, warm gloves, and big-sized shirts are among the best-seller items in this market. Also, you can find it interesting to see a line of booths with Russian names in front, standing side by side. It will make you feel like you are in little Russia in Ho Chi Minh City.
Check out more local markets in Ho Chi Minh City
Conclusion on the Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City
The Russian Market is like a miniature of Russia in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. There are a bunch of reasons why it is a must for you to visit that unique market. The place offers you another different aspect of the city and is worth your time. You can shop for Russian foods, souvenirs, or warm clothes at affordable prices.
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