Introduction

Dong Xuan Market, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi is one of the largest markets in the Northern Vietnam, hundreds of years old. Located in the center of the capital, this is not only a bustling trading place but also a "culinary paradise", a place that "pampers" Hanoi tourists with delicious Hanoi dishes.

Address of Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: The market is located right in the center of Hanoi Old Quarter, about 10 minutes walk from Hoan Kiem Lake. 

Address of Dong Xuan Market.

Address of Dong Xuan Market. Source: Vinwonders

Dong Xuan Market Opening Hours

Dong Xuan Market is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. In addition, on weekend evenings (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), the area around the market becomes Dong Xuan Night Market, operating from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, providing a bustling shopping and entertainment space.

Opening Hours of Dong Xuan Market.

Opening Hours of Dong Xuan Market. Source: Viet Fun Travel

Formation and Development History

Dong Xuan Market was established in 1889 during the French colonial period and was one of the largest markets in the North at that time. Built on the foundation of an old market, this new market quickly became an important trading center, providing essential goods for the people of Hanoi and neighboring provinces.

Through many historical changes, Dong Xuan market has witnessed the ups and downs of the capital. During the resistance war against France, the market was a fierce battlefield in the Hanoi battle in 1946. After many renovations and expansions, today, Dong Xuan market still maintains its position as one of the busiest markets in Hanoi.

Dong Xuan Market was established in 1889 during the French colonial period.

Dong Xuan Market was established in 1889 during the French colonial period. Source: Ky uc Ha Noi

Notable Products at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is renowned for its wide variety of goods, ranging from clothing, fabrics, footwear, and electronics to Hanoi specialties and products from other provinces.

Clothing and fabrics: This is the busiest area of ​​Dong Xuan market, with hundreds of stalls selling all kinds of fabrics, from silk, cotton, chiffon to traditional hand-woven fabrics. In addition, the market is also a wholesale clothing supplier for many fashion stores in the area.

Clothing and Fabrics.

Clothing and Fabrics. Source: Xanh sm 

Souvenirs and Handicrafts: Visitors can find uniquely Vietnamese souvenirs such as hand-embroidered paintings, Bat Trang ceramics, silk products, and small, charming gifts made from bamboo and rattan.

Souvenirs and Handicrafts.

Souvenirs and Handicrafts. Source: Top 1 Ha NoNoi

Hanoi Specialties: Must-try Hanoi specialties include sugared dried fruits (o mai), green rice cakes (banh com), lotus tea, and various dried nuts. These traditional delicacies make for perfect gifts to bring back for family and friends.

Hanoi Specialties.

Hanoi Specialties. Source: Xanh sm 

Cuisine at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is not only a shopping paradise but also an ideal destination for food lovers. The market's food section offers a variety of Hanoi specialties, ranging from traditional dishes to irresistible street food.

Pho Tiu: A unique variation of traditional pho, pho tiu at Dong Xuan Market features a light, delicate broth, soft rice noodles, and flavorful char siu pork.

Bun Cha: This famous dish consists of fragrant grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and Hanoi’s signature sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Xoi Xeo: One of Hanoi’s signature sticky rice dishes, xoi xeo is topped with smooth mung bean paste, crispy fried shallots, and a touch of rich chicken fat.

Lotus Sweet Soup & Tofu Pudding: These refreshing sweet treats help beat the summer heat in Hanoi, offering a light and pleasant taste.

Dong Xuan Market is not only a shopping paradise but also an ideal destination for food lovers.

Dong Xuan Market is not only a shopping paradise but also an ideal destination for food lovers. Source: hanoimoi.com

How to Get to Dong Xuan Market

To get to this famous market, visitors can choose personal vehicles such as motorbikes, cars or take taxis and technology motorbike taxis. The route to Dong Xuan market for your reference:

  • Starting from Hoan Kiem Lake: Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square - Hang Dao Street - intersection - market gate.
  • Starting from Long Bien Bridge: Long Bien Bridge - Tran Nhat Duat Street - Hang Khoai Street - market gate.
  • Starting from Quan Thanh Street: Quan Thanh - Hang Dau Street - Nguyen Thiep Street - Hang Khoai Street - market gate.

If you want to go by bus, you can take the bus routes that have stops near the market, such as route 01 (Gia Lam Bus Station – Yen Nghia), number 04 (Long Bien Bus Station – Nuoc Ngam Bus Station), number 08 (Long Bien Bus Station – Dong My).

How to Get to Dong Xuan Market. How to Get to Dong Xuan Market. Source: MOTOGO

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Tips for Visiting Dong Xuan Market

  • Take care of belongings: As the market is often crowded, visitors should be mindful of their personal belongings to avoid theft.
  • Check product quality: Some items may not meet quality expectations, so it's best to inspect them carefully before purchasing.
  • Choose the right time to visit: To avoid peak crowds, consider visiting in the early morning or early afternoon.

Tips for Visiting Dong Xuan Market.

Tips for Visiting Dong Xuan Market. Source: Vinwonders

Tourist Attractions Near Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, close to many famous tourist attractions:

  • Hoan Kiem Lake (about a 10-minute walk) – A symbol of Hanoi, featuring Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple.
  • Hoan Kiem Walking Street – A lively area on weekends where visitors can experience local culture and entertainment activities.
  • Hanoi Opera House (about 2 km away) – One of the most iconic architectural landmarks of the capital.
  • Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam (about 3 km away) – Vietnam’s first university, rich in historical and cultural significance.
  • O Quan Chuong Gate (a few hundred meters away) – The only remaining ancient city gate of Thang Long Citadel.
  • Quan Su Pagoda – A historic and sacred pagoda in the heart of Hanoi.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake. Source: Hoang Ha Mobile 

Conclusion

Dong Xuan Market is not only a bustling commercial hub but also a destination rich in Hanoi’s cultural and historical heritage. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a local resident, a trip to Dong Xuan Market promises memorable experiences. Take the time to explore this vibrant market and immerse yourself in the soul of the thousand-year-old capital!

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