It cannot be denied that Dong Xuan Market is one of the top attractive destinations in Hanoi. If you have the opportunity to visit the capital of Vietnam, you should take time to visit Dong Xuan Market. This is a popular shopping center and it is also the place making you understand more about the trading culture in North of Vietnam. Below are all the tips for travelers who come here for the first time. Do not miss any tip or you will regret.
Where is Dong Xuan Market?
Dong Xuan market is located in the old quarter area of Hanoi. It is about 3km in length from Hoan Kiem Lake, acrossing Hang Ngang, Hang Dao and Hang Duong streets and ends at the alley of the market.
Every Saturday, in the evening, tourists coming here can enjoy traditional folk arts and performances such as Hat Cheo (Vietnamese popular opera), Xam singing, Quan Ho folk songs and Ca Tru, etc. These activities are considered to be unique features of the night market.
What makes Dong Xuan Market special?
At this market, you can buy thousands of items from goods to food or from small to big things. There are many markets in the center of Hanoi but none of these sell such many kinds of things like in Dong Xuan. Although it is the biggest wholesale market, tourists can totally buy Vietnam souvenirs or try traditional dishes at stalls inside the market.
Read more: Top famous tourist attractions in Hanoi
Opening hours
On weekdays, it opens from 7 am to 6 pm. However, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the market closes at 10h30 pm. The night market on weekends is always crowded with the locals and tourists at 8 to 10 pm.
Tips: If you want to buy things such as Bat Trang ceramics, sand paintings or Dong Ho drawings, you should come in the day time. If you want to enjoy the bustling atmosphere and watch traditional performances, 8 pm is the ideal time.
Tips when being at Dong Xuan Market
Money
Do not bring along too much money. There are thieves and robbers anywhere. So, you should always keep an eye on your pocket. You can only use cash at the market.
The price of goods here are not too expensive. Sellers often offer higher prices comparing to the actual price to foreign tourists. You should bargain for everything you want to buy. A half of the price they offer may be reasonable.
Vehicles
The only advice here is to walk to Dong Xuan Market. If your hotel is too far from the market, you can ride a motorbike to go to the market and leave it at the nearby parking lot. Because from 7 pm, the market will be very crowded.
Go with family or visit as a group to Dong Xuan market
- If you have kids coming with you, you should hold his/her hands tightly. The market is always crowded of people. Be careful, do not let your kids lost the way.
- As traveling as a group and all of you want to buy things at a shop, you can even bargain for better prices. But, be noticed with fake items.
- Be careful with your belongings such as phones and accessories.
- A pair of sneaker, sport shoes or sandals are always better than wearing high heels when wandering the market.
- Last but not least, find a food stall inside the market and try the real local dishes. You cannot leave without trying anything here.
