During their exploration of the Dong Van Karst Plateau, tourists cannot miss the fascinating local markets. Especially noteworthy is the ancient Trang Kim market, located 10 km from the district center, which has existed for several hundred years. From dawn, before the sun rises, while the town is still shrouded in cold mist, people from the villages and hamlets flock to Trang Kim market. People of all ages, from young to old, come to the market. Children accompany their parents to the market, young men and women come to socialize and find friends, and traders bustle about, creating a lively and colorful scene.
A corner of Trang Kim market.
The products sold in the market are mainly agricultural products produced or harvested by the local people from the forest; and traditional clothing of the ethnic minorities in the area. Livestock and poultry are traded and sold; household goods and daily necessities are also displayed to serve the needs of the people. The way goods are displayed is simple and rustic, using old tarpaulins, banana leaves spread on the ground, or placed in traditional baskets. Though simple, it is the culmination of the people's labor and production, and reflects their close connection and harmonious living with nature.
The market also has a food court with steaming pots of thang co (a traditional stew) and fragrant bottles of corn wine; typical mountain dishes such as men men (corn porridge) and tau chua (a type of noodle soup). Along with that is Trang Kim pho, one of the most famous specialties in Ha Giang.
Holding the agricultural products he had just bought from the market, Mr. Sung Mi Sinh, from Dau Cau 2 village, Can Ty commune, happily shared: “The market is a beautiful traditional cultural feature that has existed for a long time in the daily life and culture of the Mong ethnic group. For the Mong people, going to the market has many cultural and customary meanings, especially the buying, selling, and trading activities. The Mong market is always unique and outstanding with its very own characteristics in terms of food , clothing, etc.”
Pho Trang Kim, a famous local specialty, is sold at the local market.
Ms. Luu Bao Anh, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, shared: “During my trip to Ha Giang, I had the opportunity to visit Trang Kim highland market, which was a wonderful experience. I found the locals very friendly and hospitable, which was fantastic. We learned about the local culture, customs, and traditions, while also enjoying delicious local specialties. Everyone here is kind, friendly, and enthusiastic. I bought honey and sticky rice as gifts for my family and friends.”
Not only local residents, Trang Kim market also attracts traders and people from several communes in Yen Minh district and neighboring communes. The traditional costumes of the Tay, Nung, Mong, Dao... ethnic groups add unique colors to the market, creating a vibrant and colorful picture rich in ethnic identity. The market opens early in the morning, and begins to disperse when the sun reaches its zenith. Once all the goods brought for exchange have been sold and all essential items have been purchased, everyone heads back home, ending a bustling market day and promising to meet again at the next market.
The Trang Kim market is a beautiful aspect of daily life, and it also embodies many unique cultural values of the ethnic minorities in the mountainous region at the gateway to the Stone Plateau. It is not only a place for trading unique products but also a meeting place for exchange and interaction, an opportunity for each region to showcase the essence of its ethnic group through traditional clothing, food, and folk songs. Furthermore, besides commercial exchange, the highland market also serves as a platform for authorities to disseminate the Party's guidelines and the State's policies and laws, aiming to raise public awareness.
Nowadays, as people's lives improve, the local markets have also undergone many changes. They are no longer just places for exchanging goods; the traditional beauty and cultural identity of the ethnic groups are unique features that the people preserve. The distinctive products make these markets a highly attractive destination for tourists from all over.
Visiting highland markets in general, and the Trang Kim market in particular, allows us to appreciate the cultural beauty of the ethnic minorities. This beauty is not ostentatious or elaborate, but simple and rustic, reflecting the gentle and genuine nature of the local people. Therefore, each market leaves an unforgettable impression on everyone who has the opportunity to visit.
Nguyen Dieu/Dien Bien Phu Newspaper
Source: https://baophutho.vn/mot-thoang-cho-phien-trang-kim-220613.htm
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