1. An Overview of Dong Xuan Market In Hanoi

The market consisted of five contiguous buildings with a distinctive architectural blend of Asian and European influences. Today, it occupies almost 14,000m² with three storeys, around 2,000 stalls, various entrances, staircases, and an elevator system, making it a handy hub for trade and shopping. Among the many markets in Hanoi, Dong Xuan stands out as a long-standing wholesale hub that reflects the capital’s vibrant trading culture.

1.1. Location

Dong Xuan Market is situated at No. 15 Cau Dong Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, in Hanoi's Old Quarter. The area is surrounded by lively streets: Dong Xuan to the west, Hang Khoai to the north, Cau Dong to the south, and Nguyen Thien Thuat to the east, making it an ideal stop when you're deciding what to do in Hanoi.

The main entrance faces west and has a modest open area in front. To the north is Huyen Thien Shrine, which is eventually called Huyen Thien Pagoda. Located just behind this iconic wholesale hub is Bac Qua Market, leading many to collectively refer to the two as Dong Xuan - Bac Qua Market.

Dong Xuan Market is located in Hanoi's Old Quarter and always bustling with people (Source: Canva)

An illustrative image representing Dong Xuan Market map

1.2. Dong Xuan Market Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Weekend nights (Friday – Sunday): Open until 10:30 PM

If you're looking to enjoy the energy of a true Hanoi night market, the weekend nights are the best time to visit. There are no food stalls inside the market, but at the market entrance, visitors can try purchasing local foods, typically dry goods. Additionally, most shops outside of the market are open all day long.

The new stalls outside Dong Xuan market are lit up in the evening (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

1.3. Directions To Dong Xuan Market

There are many ways to get to Dong Xuan Market. You can ride a motorbike, take a taxi or a bus for more convenience.

• By motorbike: You can drive yourself from nearby areas in Hoan Kiem District.
• By taxi: If you are inexperienced with the roads, utilizing standard ride-hailing apps to request rides is strongly recommended.
• By bus: Take the bus number 1 (Gia Lam - Yen Nghia), 4 (Long Bien - Nuoc Ngam), or 8 (Long Bien - Dong My). Additionally, the 31, 03, 11, 14, 18, 23, 22, and 40 make stops at Dong Xuan Market. If you're at the pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake, bus 34 is a decent alternative, while from Trinh Cong Son Walking Street, take the 146 bus to nearby neighborhoods and then walk to the market.

1.4. What To Buy at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is one of northern Vietnam's main wholesale markets, particularly serving bulk purchasers and distributing commodities to multiple provinces. Unlike small local markets that cater to daily consumer needs, Dong Xuan Market is constantly busy, with goods being transported throughout the northern region. The market offers a wide range of products, including stylish clothing and female accessories, as well as fresh produce and electronics.

• Accessories and household items: Phone accessories, cosmetics, watches, souvenirs, baby supplies.
• Food and dry goods: Nuts, spices, dried fruits, and confectionery.
• Electronics and handicrafts: made-in-China electronics and traditional products including pottery vases, bamboo goods, colorfully embroidered linen, and so forth.

Although it is mostly a wholesale market, retail shoppers can still haggle to buy things directly. Prices range from around 10,000 VND to 300,000 VND, depending on the goods and quantity ordered.

Right at the market gate, countless goods were displayed for sale (Source: Pexels)

Tourists are roaming their favorite souvenirs at Dong Xuan market (Source: Pexels)

Beyond Dong Xuan, the broader landscape of markets in Hanoi offers even more to discover. For instance, you could Explore Long Bien Market – Hanoi’s Bustling and Historic Wholesale Hub, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's early morning trade as produce from across the region arrives.

2. History And Architecture of Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market, located in the center of Hanoi's Old Quarter, is not just a lively shopping attraction, but also a living testament to the city's rich history. In this guide, we delve into its historical and architectural legacy, offering insights into its enduring cultural significance.

2.1. History

In 1804, during the Nguyen Dynasty, Dong Xuan Market was built south of the To Lich River to meet the commercial demands of merchant ships. Following that, in 1889, the To Lich River and Thai Cuc Lake were landfilled, the French authorities reorganized the region, combining market stalls into an open space in Dong Xuan Ward. By 1890, the French had reconstructed the market. Although its actual name was Les Halles Centrales or Grand Marché, the term Dong Xuan was most familiar to the locals.

2.2. Architecture

Dong Xuan Market features a mix of Vietnamese and French architecture. Initially measured at 6,500m², it consisted of five interconnected buildings with double-layered corrugated iron roofs for ventilation and a façade with five French-style doors. Its wall apertures allowed natural light to penetrate, which improved both aesthetics and functionality.

The vaulted roof of the market was inspired by the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a symbol of Vietnamese royal architecture. The bronze relief "Hanoi - Winter 1946" (5.7 meters tall, 7 tons) is also a highlight, commemorating the intense fight on 14 February 1947, in which Battalion 101 fought bravely.

Dong Xuan Market today has been expanded and built in a more modern style than before

3. Tips For Shopping in Dong Xuan Day And Night Market

Dong Xuan Market welcomes you to stroll through its vibrant aisles, snap Instagram-worthy moments, and immerse yourself in a true shopping experience.

Daytime Market

During the day, Dong Xuan Market is divided into different sections, each offering a unique range of products according to each floor:

• First floor: Clothing, shoes, handbags, electronics, and souvenirs.
• Second floor: Fabrics of all colors and patterns
• Third floor: Children's clothing, baby products, and daily essentials.
• Back area: Birds and small animals. The northern area, known as Bac Qua Market, is home to many food stalls serving until late at night.

During the daytime, inside Dong Xuan Market are three floors of the market, with elevators and stairs moving between floors

Night Market

On weekends, Dong Xuan Night Market becomes livelier than ever, running from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Shopping and entertainment activities take place outside the market while inside the market, the kiosks are closed. This shopping and entertainment area is 3km away from Dong Xuan Market to Hoan Kiem Lake, passing through Dong Xuan, Hang Duong, Hang Ngang, and Hang Dao streets.

As the night falls, the market lights up with stalls selling clothes, shoes, accessories, and souvenirs, interspersed with street food vendors. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of local delicacies, the sounds of vibrant street music, and the energy of bustling crowds. At the end of Hang Dao Street, a dedicated souvenir section awaits tourists looking for unique mementos.

Dong Xuan Night Market is brightly lit and bustling with people

4. Must-Try Street Eateries Around Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is not just a thriving shopping district, but also a street food heaven that reflects the heart of Hanoi. Traditional meals with distinct flavors can be found here, including boiling pig rib porridge and crispy shrimp cakes, as well as fragrant grilled pork with vermicelli (bun cha). Outside the market, various cheap eats venues are ready to serve, providing an authentic and enjoyable local dining experience. The following are some of the must-try spots:

Huyen Anh Pork Rib Porridge (Chao suon)

• Address: 14 Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 12:00 PM - 3:00 AM (next day)

That eatery is located across from the entrance to Dong Xuan Market, near the one end of Hàng Khoai Street. It's an open-air space with meals served on trays and guests seated on plastic stools.

The eatery offers rice porridge, side dishes, and drinks, but the highlight is its pork rib porridge. Made from finely ground rice, the porridge has a smooth, cloud-like texture with a mild savory-sweet flavor. Topped with crispy fried dough sticks (quay) and a dash of spicy black pepper, each spoonful becomes even more flavorful.

Porridge is cooked with finely ground rice and sweet bone broth

Co Am Shrimp Cakes (Banh tom)

• Address: 84 Hang Chieu Street, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM (except Sunday 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM), 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM

This legendary shrimp cake shop is one of the oldest eateries in Dong Xuan Market, located at the entrance of a small alley. The tiny 5 - 7m² shop has around 10 seats for customers. The shrimp cakes are made from eggs, turmeric powder, and shredded sweet potatoes, deep-fried with fresh shrimp. There are two frying styles: lightly fried for takeout and deep-fried for dining in. Served with sweet and sour fish sauce and pickled papaya, the crispy texture and rich flavor make it irresistible. To balance the oiliness, diners can enjoy it with fresh herbs, provided free of charge.

Mrs. Am's shrimp cakes are crispy and golden brown, eaten with sweet and sour dipping sauce (Source: Canva)

Hang Nga Bamboo Grilled Pork with Vermicelli (Bun Cha Que Tre)

• Address: Dong Xuan Market Lane, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM

This small eatery, located at the entrance of Dong Xuan Market, is known for its traditional bun cha. The dish features charcoal-grilled pork patties wrapped in wild betel leaves and skewered on bamboo sticks, staying true to Hanoi’s authentic cooking style. What sets this place apart is its unique homemade vinegar, made from Indochina Dragonplum and tamarind, adding a fragrant, tangy twist to the dipping sauce. Pair it with crispy fried spring rolls for an even more satisfying meal.

Bun cha que tre is a classic Hanoian meal (Source: Canva)

Che Yen

• Address: Dong Xuan Market Alley, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Che Yen offers a variety of che, a popular Vietnamese sweet dessert. This refreshing treat comes in many colorful variations, featuring chewy, jelly-like textures, fruits and fragrant sweetness. There are many types of toppings with sweet, rich, creamy or refreshing flavors depending on the type of che. Typically served in small porcelain bowls or plastic cups, it’s the perfect way to cool down on hot days.

There are no food stalls inside the market, however, the surrounding neighborhood is home to a number of eateries serving delectable local cuisine. Walking straight ahead from Dong Xuan Corner leads to Dong Xuan Valley, a sprawling street food hall. Remember to take note of the opening hours of each stand to avoid missing out on these renowned meals.

Vietnamese desserts at Che Yen are varied and appealing in colors and flavors (Source: Canva)

5. Nearby Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss

As Dong Xuan Market is located in the heart of Hanoi, an area of rich cultural and historical significance, you'll find bustling pedestrian lanes, old temples, and renowned landmarks that reflect the city's antiquity just a few feet away. Here are some must-see destinations that offer an unforgettable journey.

5.1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the Red River Delta in the eleventh century. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located 1km from Dong Xuan market, is a cultural icon created in the classic Vietnamese style, with wooden furnishings and traditional themes. On a water stage, expert puppeteers operate wooden puppets while a live orchestra plays traditional instruments like the monochord, moon lute, drums, and more. Each performance realistically depicts mythology, folklore, and scenes of rural Vietnamese life.

Panorama of water puppet stage at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater (Source: Canva)

5.2. Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple, located on Jade Island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, forms a magnificent historical ensemble with Turtle Tower. This temple is about 1,2km from Dong Xuan market. Its building incorporates traditional Vietnamese design and embraces the "Three Religions in Harmony" theme (Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism). The temple has a long-established history, going back to the Ly and Tran dynasties. As a sacred location, it provides insights into Hanoi's history, spiritual culture, and legacy.

The temple is encircled by ancient trees, which lend a mystical and ancient ambiance (Source: Pexels)

The temple is encircled by ancient trees, which lends a mystical and ancient ambiance (Source: Canva)

5.3. Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House was modeled after Paris's Palais Garnier and features a Neoclassical and Baroque architectural style. The distance from Dong Xuan market to here is 2km. It was previously used to host opera, musical theater, and ballet performances for the French elite, as well as to introduce European culture to the Vietnamese people. Following the August Revolution of 1945, the opera house served as a site for key Government and National Assembly meetings and a venue for enthralling performances like concerts, operas, ballets, dramas, and academic art programs.

Hanoi Opera House is a building of special significance to the city's people (Source: Pexels)

6. Local Tips For Visiting Dong Xuan Market

As Dong Xuan Market is the most active trading center in Hanoi, attracting people from all over the world and requiring the regular presence of security forces, here are essential tips to ensure you have a safe trip and a pleasant shopping experience.

• No alcohol allowed: Bringing alcoholic beverages into the market is prohibited and may result in fines, which range from 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND.
• Be mindful while communicating: Many sellers may not speak English, so you can converse with them using a translation application, such as Google Translate.
• Be cautious of pickpockets: Dong Xuan Market is crowded, making it an easy target for thieves. Carry only essential items, avoid bringing valuables, as well as keep your wallet and phone securely stored. Try not to take them out frequently to minimize the risk of theft.
• Check prices and quality beforehand: Sellers often quote higher prices, so research market prices and clothing quality before your visit to negotiate better deals. Additionally, avoid asking too many questions if you don’t intend to buy, as many vendors here can be strict and impatient.
• Buy wholesale: Most vendors at Dong Xuan Market sell in bulk rather than retail, making it more suitable for those looking to buy in large quantities.
• Always bring cash: Most transactions here are cash-based, so make sure to bring enough money for your purchases.

Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi is an unmissable cultural trading hub to delight your taste buds with the best street eats, take a glimpse into daily lives of Hanoians and shop souvenirs that encapsulate your experience here. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to explore nearby top attractions to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture and get the most out of this journey!

If you’re interested in learning more about exciting travel insights, look no further than visiting Vietnam Airlines’ guide Here.