+84376276576(24/7)The night market of Dong Van Old Quarter is situated within the ancient streets of Dong Van, and it’s a must-visit destination in Ha Giang’s Dong Van for travelers stepping foot in the old town. As you arrive at the market, you will experience a lively and bustling atmosphere. Let’s explore what unique products and festivals this market has to offer, which will surely make visitors reluctant to leave.
Dong Van Old Town Market: A Unique Blend of Chinese and Vietnamese Cultures
When talking about Dong Van Old Town, beyond the ancient moss-covered houses arranged in a U-shape, we also witness a deeply rooted and distinctive cultural aspect of the local ethnic groups in Ha Giang, showcased through the Dong Van Old Town Market. This market area was constructed with a fusion of ancient Chinese architectural style combined with the unique characteristics of the indigenous people, resulting in the remarkably unique Dong Van Old Town Market.
Looking down from above onto the ancient town market area, the houses designed in the shape of the letter “U” form a bustling, crowded, and vibrant district. Each house is roofed with dual-layered tiles, symbolizing the interconnectedness and mutual support among the various ethnic groups, like siblings.
Dong Van Ancient Town Market: A Place of Trade and Commerce
Dong Van Ancient Town Market usually takes place every Sunday morning in the old town area of Dong Van. The market schedule is similar to the schedule of the Dong Van Highland Market. At Dong Van Ancient Town Market, you can easily come across unique scenes: Various fresh vegetables, roots, and agricultural products carefully chosen by the locals to sell to tourists.
Dong Van Ancient Town Market: Where Travelers Seek Distinctive Cuisine
When mentioning Dong Van Ancient Town Market, one cannot forget the image of various ethnic dishes being offered abundantly for visitors to enjoy. Unlike the local markets in Ha Giang that primarily cater to the indigenous population, Dong Van Ancient Town Market focuses on serving the tourists who come to visit. As a result, the flavors of the dishes have been slightly adjusted for easier appreciation, while still retaining the distinctive characteristics of the highland ethnic cultures.
When you visit Dong Van Ancient Town Market, you must indulge in the specialties of Ha Giang in general and Dong Van, Ha Giang in particular, such as:
- Thang co (Stone Crab Soup)
- Com lam (Bamboo Rice)
- Che au tau (A kind of sweet dessert)
- Thang den (A type of hotpot)
- Banh tam giac mach (Buckwheat Triangle Cake)
- Banh cuon chan (Rolled Cake with Egg)
- Pho chua (Sour Pho)
- Reu nuong (Grilled Moss)
- Đau xi (A type of local vegetable)
- Lau ga đen (Black Chicken Hotpot)
In addition to savoring the distinctive dishes on the spot, travelers can also purchase specialties here to bring back as gifts for family and friends, such as:
- Thit trau gac bep (Smoked Buffalo Meat)
- Lap xuong (Vietnamese Sausage)
- Mat ong Bac Ha (Bac Ha Honey)
- Ruou ngo (Corn Wine)
- Che Shan Tuyet (Shan Tuyet Tea)
Dong Van Night Market: The Unique Highlight of Dong Van Ancient Town
The Dong Van Night Market is one of the distinctive features of Dong Van Ancient Town, showcasing the uniqueness of the town as a whole and Dong Van in particular. During the evening, it transforms from the agricultural product stalls of the morning to quick-food stalls and souvenir vendors.
As the night falls, the twinkling and enchanting lights start to shine. The serene morning scene gives way to a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, chatter, and the footsteps of people exploring. The ambiance becomes joyful, bustling, and livelier than ever before.
If you happen to visit during the “Ancient Town Night” event held annually three times a year on the 14th, 15th, and 16th days of the lunar calendar, the experience becomes even more unique. During this occasion, the houses in the ancient town area are adorned with red lanterns, while the local indigenous people don vibrant traditional costumes.
During the “Ancient Town Night” event, you also have the opportunity to directly participate in unique cultural festivals organized by the local residents. Immersing yourself in the sound of the khèn (a traditional instrument), playing distinctive folk games – these will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories for you.
Above are the detailed pieces of information that I can provide about Dong Van Ancient Town. With the information I’ve given you above, I hope you have a better understanding of this market and a wonderful experience at Dong Van Ancient Town in particular and Ha Giang tourism in general.
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