1. Bau Market - Phu Ly Market: Traditional Shopping Center of Ha Nam

1.1. Introduction to Bau Market - Phu Ly Market

Bau Market is one of the long-standing landmarks, closely associated with the development history of Phu Ly city, Ha Nam. Initially, Bau Market was the market of Bau village (Bao Thon), belonging to Chau Cau commune in the past – an area that was once a desolate land with many lakes and swamps. Later, along with land reclamation and urban development, Bau Market gradually expanded, becoming a large market in the region, known for its bustling atmosphere from the 1930s-1940s.

Bau Market - Phu Ly Market what does it offer? (Image: collected)

Bau Market not only serves the buying and selling needs of local people but also serves as a major trading hub, concentrating products from villages and communes throughout the province and many neighboring provinces. Prominent goods at the market include fresh food, local specialties, agricultural products, handicrafts, fabrics, household goods… The market was once a bustling place for exchange and trade, attracting merchants from other provinces to exchange goods.

The name “Bau Market” originates from the name of Bau village, an area that was once a low-lying area with many ponds and lakes, later reclaimed to establish a village and a market. The name is associated with the area’s development history, becoming an integral part of the cultural life of the people of Phu Ly. Bau Market has been mentioned in many local folk songs and proverbs, reflecting its important role in the collective memory.

Later, due to urban planning requirements, Bau Market has changed locations many times and no longer exists as a traditional market. However, the name “Bau Market” is still retained, replacing the name Phu Ly Market (formerly Tran Market), as a way to preserve the cultural and historical value of the city. The remains of the old Bau village include Bau Pagoda (Thien Bao Tu), Bau Lake, and Bao Thon communal house – distinctive spiritual and cultural sites of Phu Ly today.

Traditional market atmosphere, bearing a strong local imprint (Image: collected)

Combining historical, cultural, and administrative elements, the market is now known as Bau Market – Phu Ly Market. Experiencing this place means you not only discover a landmark steeped in local character but can also find everything from fresh food and local specialties to clothing, shoes, and household goods at reasonable prices.

1.2. Address and how to get to Bau Market

Address: Bien Hoa Street, Minh Khai Ward, Phu Ly City, Ha Nam Province.

Getting there:

• If traveling from Hanoi, you can take a bus or train to Phu Ly, then take a taxi or motorbike to the market.

• If traveling by private vehicle, you can follow National Highway 1A, taking about 1-1.5 hours from Hanoi.

Bau Market - Phu Ly Market is about 60 km south of Hanoi, located on the Phap Van – Cau Gie expressway

2. What does Bau Market - Phu Ly Market sell?

Bau Market - Phu Ly Market is divided into many different areas, specializing in a variety of goods to suit the shopping needs of all ages.

2.1. Food area - A paradise of Ha Nam specialties

If you want to enjoy or buy souvenirs from Ha Nam, the food area of Bau Market will surely satisfy you. Some notable specialties here include:

• Phu Ly Banh Cuon Cha – A famous dish with soft and smooth Banh Cuon combined with fragrant grilled cha.

• Nhan Hau Braised Fish – A famous specialty of Ha Nam with a rich flavor, traditionally braised in an earthen pot.

• Dai Hoang Royal Banana – A type of banana fit for royalty, with a characteristic sweet and fragrant taste.

• Voc Village Wine – Made from delicious glutinous rice, carrying the special flavor of traditional wine.

In addition, here you can also find fresh produce such as vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish sold daily. Ha Nam is a paradise of fresh produce, so when you come to the market, you will definitely want to “buy the whole world” of these foods.

2.2. Clothing, shoes, and fashion accessories area

If you love shopping for cheap fashion, Bau Market - Phu Ly Market has hundreds of stalls selling clothes, shoes, and accessories with a wide variety of designs. From ready-made clothes to high-quality secondhand goods, you can easily find your favorite items at very affordable prices.

2.3. Household goods and electronics area

The market also has a separate area specializing in household goods such as pots, pans, dishes, plastic goods, household appliances… at good prices, suitable for locals and tourists who want to buy essential items.

2.4. Night market - a vibrant experience

In the evening, Bau Market also has a night market with many food and shopping stalls, attracting a large number of people and tourists to come and enjoy street food.

3. Reasons to visit Bau Market - Phu Ly Market when visiting Ha Nam

3.1. Bustling Shopping Spot, Diverse Merchandise

Bau Market - Phu Ly Market offers a wide variety of goods at affordable prices, allowing you to easily shop for everything from food and specialties to clothing and household goods.

Bau Market - Phu Ly Market is a bustling shopping spot with diverse merchandise (Image: collected)

3.2. Experiencing Traditional Shopping Culture

Bau Market is not only a place for trade but also a destination to experience the beauty of traditional Vietnamese markets, where the warmth and friendliness between vendors and customers are still preserved.

3.3. Opportunity to Enjoy Ha Nam Specialties

If you want to explore Ha Nam cuisine, Bau Market is the perfect place to experience the flavors of local specialties at reasonable prices.

3.4. Convenient Location, Easy to Access

Located in the heart of Phu Ly city, Bau Market is easily accessible from many different areas, making it ideal for combining sightseeing and shopping.

4. Notes When Shopping at Bau Market - Phu Ly Market

• Bargaining: For clothing and shoes, you can negotiate for a slightly better price.

• Protecting your belongings: The market is quite crowded, so keep your bags, wallets, and phones safe while shopping.

• Go in the early morning: If you want to buy the freshest food, go to the market early in the morning.

Vibrant everyday life at Phu Ly’s largest market (Image: collected)

If you want to learn more about the culture and people of Ha Nam, Bau Market - Phu Ly Market is an ideal stop. It is not only a place to buy and sell but also a place that preserves traditional values and is a witness to the history of this land. Come and experience the atmosphere of an old Vietnamese market, savor the local specialties, and feel the friendliness and hospitality of the local people.