Located about 30 kilometers from central Hanoi, Nua Market, situated in Binh Phu commune, Thach That district, is one of the few rural markets that has retained its old cultural charm. This market still preserves traditional customs and offers a wide range of local goods, representing the essence of Vietnam’s Northern Delta region.
The saying “First is Kinh Ky, second is Nua Market” is often passed down among locals, reflecting the reputation of this market as a place that has preserved the unique features of traditional Northern Vietnamese markets since the 11th century. The market has maintained its historical significance and cultural heritage through the ages.
Market Days and the Unique Rhythm of Nua Market
Nủa Market of Hanoi operates on a specific schedule, opening on the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd, and 27th days of the lunar calendar. The market usually starts early in the morning, right at dawn, and continues until around 1 PM. Locals have a saying, “22 for the girls, 27 for the boys,” referring to the two most special market days towards the end of the lunar month. While the range of goods sold on these days remains similar, the 22nd is known for attracting more female shoppers, while the 27th sees a higher turnout of men.
The market takes place on an open field, with temporary stalls and tents that reflect the rural character of the area. It serves as a vital hub for trading goods and necessities for the local community in Thach That district, Hanoi City. Most of the items sold are handcrafted or locally produced by the villagers, such as bamboo baskets, woven trays, sieves, and other household utensils. There are also tools like knives, scissors, hoes, and shovels, as well as livestock like chickens, pigs, and dogs. Traditional products like woven mats and straw brooms are also popular items at the market.
Bustling End-of-Year Market Days
As the year comes to a close, Nua Market becomes a bustling gathering spot for locals looking to prepare for the Lunar New Year (Tet). The variety of goods available during these final market sessions is more diverse, reflecting the increased demand for Tet preparations. Everyone has something to seek: some people buy areca nuts and betel leaves, others purchase new mats for their homes, some search for a new calendar, while others look for bamboo tubes, ropes, or fresh dong leaves for wrapping traditional Tet cakes. Even pets become items of trade as families look for a new companion to welcome into their homes for the new year.
The liveliest time at Nua Market is around 8 AM when the market is in full swing. Farmers bring their homegrown produce, harvested straight from their gardens, to the market. Even though many transactions could take place right at the farm gate, people still prefer to wait for the market day to buy or sell. This ritual of meeting at the market is a cherished tradition, allowing buyers and sellers to interact in a lively and communal environment.
Lime Sellers: A Unique Feature of the Year-End Market
One distinctive aspect of the end-of-year market sessions is the presence of lime sellers. According to traditional customs, it is a common practice for people to buy lime towards the end of the year. The lime is used for slaking and then for whitewashing houses, a tradition believed to help cleanse the home and ward off bad luck before the new year arrives. Although this practice has waned in popularity over time, lime sellers are still a familiar sight at Nua Market during the final days of the lunar year, preserving a part of the old tradition.
Preserving the Spirit of a Traditional Market
Despite the mix of old and new goods now available, Nủa Market has retained the core spirit of traditional marketplaces in the Northern Delta region. The market remains an essential part of life for the people of Thach That, offering a chance to experience the excitement and social connection of a bustling market day. The anticipation of visiting Nua Market during the year-end sessions is still palpable among the locals, making it a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Today, while many modern markets and shopping centers have emerged, the charm and excitement of Nua Market continue to draw people, keeping alive the cultural heritage of a traditional rural market. For the residents of Thach That and the surrounding areas, Nua Market is not just a place to buy and sell; it is a cultural symbol, representing the spirit of community and the enduring beauty of Vietnam’s rural life. It serves as a reminder of a time when marketplaces were more than just economic hubs—they were social spaces where stories, traditions, and the rhythms of village life converged, making Nua Market a living relic of Northern Vietnam’s rich cultural history.
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