The hill tribe market is a special cultural feature of the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, and the Dong Van Sunday market is one of the most remarkable gatherings known to tourists.
Dong Van market is located in Dong Van city which is about 150 kilometers northeast of Ha Giang city, along the national road 4C. It is held every Sunday morning in a large area. It is a place of exchange between ethnic minorities such as Hmong, Tay, Nung, Han, Hoa, Dao.
Every Sunday, early in the morning, people living in villages nestled on steep slopes or lost in deep valleys cross the mountains to get to the market in time. Each group of people heads to the market, pedestrians carrying vegetables, fruits or driving buffaloes, those on bicycles or motorcycles carrying bundles of goods and animals (chickens, dogs, pigs). Women dressed in traditional ethnic costumes come to the market from distant hamlets. Children follow their parents to the market.
Sunday seems to have become a festival for the locals with a lively atmosphere in a colorful setting. As soon as you enter the market, sellers and buyers exchange in their own language. Inside the market, you will find many types of goods: livestock, poultry, agricultural products, brocade fabrics, etc… These goods are classified by categories to make shopping easier. The sound of footsteps, the laughter of men and women, the sounds of the “khèn” (Hmong flutes), create a festive atmosphere. It is a true festival of colors, scents and tastes in the middle of majestic mountains.
For a long time, this market has been a cultural activity of the Dong Van highland ethnic groups. It is not only the place of trade but also a place of meeting, rejoicing after a long working week. In particular, on the 14th, 15th and 16th of each lunar month, at this night market there are lively cultural activities with specific characteristics of the region, including the traditional brocade weaving demonstrations of ethnic groups.
While exploring the market, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the identity of the region, discover the range of local products throughout the seasons, chat with the locals and take many unique photographs.
Dong Van market is a must-see in Ha Giang, where you can experience the local life and culture of ethnic minorities. Come to Dong Van market and see the excitement of a century-old market.
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