The Colorful Diversity of Bac Ha Market

with 41 Comments

If you're like me and love the buzzing atmosphere of local markets then you're going to enjoy this post. Bac Ha Market is located in Northwestern Vietnam (near Sa Pa). It's the biggest market frequented by ethnic minority groups living in that region. The colorful diversity of Bac Ha Market is due to the women of different ethnic groups.

 

Most of the women are from the Flower H'Mong (also known as Red H'Mong). What distinguishes these women from other H'mong groups is their unmistakable color-drenched and extravagantly embroidered traditional clothing. They're absolutely beautiful! Women from the Black H'Mong group can also be seen with their heads wrapped in fluorescent tartan scarves. What's fascinating is that they still do dress this way. This isn't a tourist trap.

 

THE COLORFUL DIVERSITY OF BAC HA MARKET

The Colorful Diversity of Bac Ha Market

 

The market is roughly divided into two sections. One section is targeted at tourists. Clean-cut stalls display an array of souvenirs. Some of the items are locally-made and locally-sourced. Prices are reasonable enough but bargaining is expected. The rest of the market is the most interesting. That's where the locals go.

 

You'll see ruffled chickens crammed into baskets, the sour-smelling raw meat section and a colorful fresh produce section. You can, also, have a bite to eat at one of the many stalls. If you make your way to the end of the market, follow a small dirt path leading up to where livestock is sold.

 

Bac Ha Market, Vietnam

 

As you wonder around the livestock auction, you'll notice another type of auction taking place down below: the selling of dogs.

 

Those selling dogs for consumption at Bac Ha Market are for the most part the Black H'Mong women. They don't eat dog meat themselves but recognize the demand among other Vietnamese. Surprisingly, dog meat is the most expensive meat in Vietnam. It's fair to say that not all Vietnamese eat dog meat; it's mostly popular in Northern Vietnam.

 

When I asked a few why they ate it, they unanimously replied that it was very flavorful and extremely delectable. More importantly, eating dog meat brings good fortune. I was told by one guy that dog meat is only consumed at the end of the lunar month. It isn't served at any other time during the month fearing bad luck. Another benefit of eating dog meat is that it presumably increases libido in men. Go figure.

 

As a side note, if you want to avoid eating dog meat in Vietnam, stay away from places serving thit cho.

 

 

There's a bird market near the shallow lake. Vietnamese (and other Asian nationals) absolutely love owning tiny, caged birds. They treat them like prized possessions. Actually, some of the birds are quite expensive. Vietnamese are very superstitious and the birds are believed to bring good fortune. I guess it's better than eating dog meat.

 

 

I loved spending time at the colorful Bac Ha Market. It's definitely worth a visit. You'll get to see local life on so many different levels: locals busy purchasing all sorts of goods, Flower H'Mong women carrying their babies and groups of young girls giggling at foreigners. It's truly an amazing experience.

 

If you enjoy perusing local markets, then make sure to add Bac Ha Market on your trip to Vietnam.

 

The Colorful Diversity of Bac Ha Market

 

 

Do you love local markets as much as I do? Any faves?

 

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The Colorful Diversity of Bac Ha Market

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41 Responses

  1. Karla Ramos
    | Reply

    What a beautiful chaotic market that is! I love how the women are dressed so well, amusing indeed. I’m just sad over the dog/cat meat trade but otherwise I love seeing the very culture of Asian countries as reflected in their daily lives, even in the market! Been to HCMC but keeping tabs on this post on my next trip to VN!

  2. Trisha Velarmino
    | Reply

    This is so entertaining! I love how a lot of Asian countries offer these kind of markets especially Vietnam! cheers and safe travels to you!

    • Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
      | Reply

      Thanks Trisha! Asia is a mecca for local outdoor markets – one of the reasons why I love visiting this continent! Safe travels to you too!

  3. Melody Pittman
    | Reply

    Very interesting story and I love the traditional dress. That baby in the backpack is adorable. I could never travel anywhere where they eat dog meat, I’m too much an animal lover but it looks like you had a good trip.

  4. Erika Bisbocci
    | Reply

    I’d love to explore this market and am especially interested in visiting the livestock section. I don’t know how I feel about selling the dogs for consumption though! Wonderful photos that capture the colors and sights of the market!

  5. Danik Bates
    | Reply

    Love to get to Sapa one day. Havent experienced markets in SE ASIA yet but you are wetting my lips on this one 😀

    • Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
      | Reply

      Hi Danik! You have to go to local markets in SEA – they’re an experience in themselves! 🙂

  6. Anne Slater-Brooks
    | Reply

    I love the colourful clothes they are wearing. The little girl is mega cute too. I always think a market is such a great insight into local life

  7. Jenni Sheldon
    | Reply

    This market looks so interesting and colourful. I am going to Vietnam in a couple of weeks but don’t think I will be near here which is a shame

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