Visit Tam Tien fish market at dawn

About 15km from Tam Ky city and 51km from Hoi An city, Tam Tien fish market in Nui Thanh district is known as the largest seafood market in Quang Nam province. Unlike other fish markets that are open all year round, Tam Tien fish market is only open in the summer, in other words, the market is busiest and most crowded during the southern fish season, from April to September.

Looking down from above at Tam Tien sea market (Quang Nam), the whole market is like a bustling picture. People go to the market, surrounded by all kinds of baskets, basins, pots, and shoulder poles.

The female traders ran back and forth like shuttles to scout for goods. As the sun rose, the atmosphere became bustling. The men hurriedly rowed their boats to bring the fish to shore, their feet stepping on the sides of their boats, swaying with the waves.

A magnificent and wonderful scene appeared before my eyes, the giant red sun like a ball of fire gradually rising above the sea. From the open sea, fishing boats gradually approached the shore, more and more crowded. Along with them were countless baskets of fresh seafood being carried into the market. Not only the traders, but also the women who carried the goods for hire, the fishermen continuously unloaded, divided the goods and bargained. My heart was filled with joy and I could not help but eagerly follow the rhythm of life here.

The fish market opens early, around 2-3 hours according to the arrival time of fishing boats. When it is still dark, the shimmering lights illuminate the path and the hurried footsteps of buyers and sellers echo, that is when you will enjoy the vibrant life of the coastal people.

Although it has been open for nearly 20 years, Tam Tien fish market still retains the wild, simple features of a simple, rustic coastal area. Fish and shrimp are always fresh, plentiful and diverse. From anchovies, pomfret, mackerel, to squid, crab, snails, there is no shortage of anything.

Tam Tien fish market not only attracts traders and small traders to buy wholesale but also attracts tourists from everywhere to experience the coastal fish market. Not only is it crowded with buyers and sellers, the image of basket boats "crowding" to transport seafood from large boats to shore is also a very special scene of the fish market... If you have the opportunity to visit Quang Nam, do not miss this attractive destination!

Article and photos: Khanh Phan

Heritage Magazine