Bac Ha Market (Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province) is a unique highlight, vividly reflecting life in the Northwest highlands. Dubbed one of the most distinctive markets in Southeast Asia, it is not only a bustling trading hub but also preserves traditional values through the vibrant colors of its brocade fabrics.
They brought along all sorts of mountain produce: fruits, honey, corn wine... Some led horses, buffaloes, and pigs, while others laboriously carried sacks of corn, potatoes, and yams. It wasn't uncommon to see young mothers carrying their babies to the market, blending into the bustling atmosphere and enjoying the reunion. Amidst this scene, the sounds of flutes and reed pipes from the Hong Mi Folk Arts Club echoed from the main hall, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry.
Bac Ha market is divided into many areas selling agricultural products, precious medicinal herbs, livestock, household goods, and characteristic cuisine . Particularly noteworthy are the stalls selling vibrant brocade fabrics – symbols of the creativity and skill of the ethnic minorities. These hand-woven fabrics, dyed with indigo or printed with intricate patterns, vividly reflect the culture of the Mong, Dao, and Tay people.
More than just clothing, Bac Ha brocade also holds a story of age-old artistic history. Each piece of fabric is the culmination of traditional weaving techniques, from spinning and dyeing to meticulous stitching. Geometric patterns, natural symbols, and indigo, yellow, and red hues not only possess aesthetic value but also reflect the beliefs and worldview of the highland people. A special feature of the Bac Ha market is that visitors can not only admire and shop but also directly experience a part of the crafting process.
At the exhibition of the Mong ethnic group's embroidery and beeswax painting cooperative in Thai Giang Pho commune, Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam (Hanoi) eagerly tried his hand at beeswax painting on fabric under the guidance of Ms. Vang Thi My. After a few strokes, Mr. Nam shared: "I truly admire the skill of the women in the highlands; just a slight mistake and the pattern will no longer be as desired. Fortunately, brocade now has more modern designs, making it easier for tourists to use and take home as souvenirs."
In the context of modernization, the influx of industrial goods and the risk of the decline of traditional crafts are worrying issues, especially for brocade weaving. Aware of this, local authorities and communities have been implementing various conservation measures. Regular cultural events are organized to celebrate the craft, encouraging people to wear traditional clothing when attending markets, and providing support to households and communities. The cooperative maintains the weaving craft.
Skilled artisans are also creative, incorporating brocade into modern designs to meet the tastes of tourists. Promoting sustainable tourism linked to local culture, combining preservation and innovation, will help Bac Ha maintain its appeal and spread its traditional values.
Source: https://baolangson.vn/net-dep-van-hoa-o-cho-phien-bac-ha-5049514.html
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