Vietnam has 54 ethnic groups in total, with the Kinh ethnicity being the majority, and the remaining communities still maintain their colorful cultural traits. And one of those is the ensemble of ethnic markets in Vietnam. Scroll down below to explore more!
What are the Ethnic Markets in Vietnam?
The S-shaped country has many types of markets, including the colorful ethnic markets in Vietnam! They are held by different communities but the most famous ones locate in the Northern mountainous areas, especially Ha Giang Province. Some ethnic markets in Vietnam take place daily, but most occur weekly or even monthly due to their less accessible locations.
On your way to visit ethnic markets in Vietnam, you’ll pass beautiful roads like this
If you visit these ethnic markets in Vietnam, you can witness the lifestyles and traditions of our ethnic groups, go somewhere less “modernized”, admire the drop-dead gorgeous surrounding sights, and best of all, discover a part of Vietnam that no normal sightseeing can offer.
Ethnic Markets in Vietnam that You Have to Visit
Khau Vai Love Market (Ha Giang Province)
Google Maps location
Time: Once a year on March 26 or 27 (Lunar calendar)
Dressing up for Khau Vai Love Market
A love market? Now that’s something you don’t hear about every day! For the past century, Khau Vai’s been a meeting place for ex-couples and single men/women to find their beau. They gather in Ha Giang, sing, dance, and talk about each other’s life. There are vendors who sell souvenirs in Khau Vai, but the highlights are the games and performances.
Dong Van Market (Ha Giang Province)
Google Maps location
Time: 6 AM – 11 AM on Sundays
Giay women selling rice at Dong Van Market
While you’re in Dong Van to see buckwheat flowers, check out Dong Van Market too. Here they sell everything from food, textiles, to even cattle! It’s a fine way to taste the local cuisine and see how the people of H’Mong, Dao, and Lo Lo ethnics interact.
Bac Ha Market (Lao Cai Province)
Google Maps location
Time: every Sunday
The bustling scene at Bac Ha Market
Bac Ha is most frequented by tourists thanks to its accessibility. It’s a must-visit destination on any trip to Sa Pa. At Bac Ha, not only will you get to buy delicate products from brocade fabric and taste exotic food, but you’ll also have a chance to witness the biggest horse market in Vietnam! Sometimes the number can go up to hundreds!
Sin Ho Market (Lai Chau Province)
Google Maps location
Time: every Saturday and Sunday
Sin Ho Market upholds many of its traditional features
Sin Ho Market is held by the Black Dao and the Red H’Mong groups. They offer textiles, household products, and food. However, what sets Sin Ho apart from the rest is its ability to keep the authenticity of traditional ethnic markets in Vietnam.
What to Do at Ethnic Markets in Vietnam?
Buy Accessories and Clothing Made from Brocade Fabric
Brocade fabric makes amazing artworks and souvenirs
Brocade fabric is a special product of the Vietnamese ethnic communities that are characterized by vibrant and multipatterned texture. People often use this material to make intricate products including clothing and accessories, which are great souvenirs.
Try Ethnic Cuisine
- Street food: Ethnic markets in Vietnam have one of the cheapest, yet most delicious street food. Whether it’s night or day, you’re sure to find a satisfying meal that’ll never break the bank. The most popular dishes are BBQ and grilled/smoked meat.
- Horse meat hotpot (Thang Co): Test your limit with “Thang Co” – one of the smelliest foods in Vietnam! It’s a traditional dish of H’Mong people, made from horse meat, for their honor guests.
- Corn wine: Corn wine is a signature drink of the H’Mong and Dao people in Northwestern Vietnam. If you’re visiting during the winter, a small bowl of this booze will warm you up.
Pho Chua is a staple breakfast item in Bac Ha, Ha Giang Province
Smoked ox meat is one of the rare things that you can only try in Vietnam Highlands
Take Pictures
Situating among Vietnam’s high mountains, ethnic markets in Vietnam have a pristine beauty that no other places can offer. Photography lovers can take pictures of the surrounding life or scenery and bring home one-of-a-kind shoots.
People from ethnic communities are very friendly towards visitors
Tips on Visiting Ethnic Markets in Vietnam
- There’s no ATM so prepare small changes and cash in Vietnamese currency. Here’s a list of money exchange spots in Hanoi.
- Beware of pickpockets. Keep your valuables where you can see them.
- Go with a guide or a Vietnamese-speaking friend if you can since many people in the ethnic groups can’t communicate in English.
- Check out what you can or can’t bring back from Vietnam before buying any souvenir. Refrain from buying antiques/stones/wild animals.
Our Thoughts on Ethnic Markets in Vietnam
Though getting to ethnic markets in Vietnam isn’t an easy feat, we guarantee you that the adventure will be worthwhile. Through this article, we hope that you’ve found the necessary information to experience this unique culture first-hand. For more details on Vietnam Travel, check out our comprehensive guides to different Vietnam provinces.
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