Han market Da Nang Vietnam: A Shopping Paradise for Tourists

When it comes to tourism in Da Nang, besides the beautiful beaches and modern architecture, visitors shouldn't miss Han Market - a famous traditional market located in the heart of the city.

Where is Han Market Da Nang?

• Address: 119 Tran Phu, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City.
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM.

Han Market has long been an icon of the local lifestyle in Da Nang. Spanning nearly 28,000 square meters, the market houses hundreds of stalls selling a wide variety of goods and local specialties. Beyond being a shopping haven, the market also entices visitors with its rustic food court, offering authentic Central Vietnamese dishes.

How to get to Han Market Da Nang

Han Market is centrally located in Da Nang, bordered by four major streets: Tran Phu, Bach Dang, Hung Vuong, and Nguyen Thai Hoc. Therefore, you can easily get here using various modes of transportation:

• Motorbike/Car: This is the most popular and convenient option. You can use a map application to find your way.
• Bus: If you want to save money, you can take a bus. Bus routes 1 and 2 have stops near Han Market, on Bach Dang or Dien Bien Phu street.
• Taxi/Ride-sharing services: This is a good choice if you're traveling in a group or are unfamiliar with the area. Ride-sharing apps are very popular in Da Nang, making it easy to book and pay for a ride.

When was Han Market in Da Nang?

Han Market is closely tied to the history and development of Da Nang City. In the 1940s, it was just a small market along the Han River where locals gathered to trade. After several phases of renovation and expansion, a new, larger market was built on a 28,000 m² site. 

On March 29, 1991, Han Market officially opened with 576 stalls and 36 kiosks. Today, it has become one of Da Nang's most bustling and famous commercial centers.

What to buy at Han Market? Useful Shopping Suggestions

Fermented Fish Sauces and Dried Goods

One of the "specialties" that captivates visitors at Han Market is the stalls selling various sauces and dried goods. The fermented fish sauces are incredibly diverse, from mắm nêm (seasoned fermented fish sauce) and mắm cá cơm (fermented anchovy sauce) to mắm ruốc (fermented shrimp paste) and mắm dưa (fermented pickled mustard greens), each offering a distinct and unforgettable flavor of Central Vietnam.

The dried goods section is just as varied, with dried fish, dried squid, dried shrimp, and dried beef being popular choices. These items are easy to store, convenient for travel, and make great gifts. When buying, remember to choose products with clean packaging, preferably vacuum-sealed, and feel free to negotiate gently to get a reasonable price.

Fresh Seafood

Han Market is also known for its wide array of fresh seafood. Crabs, shrimp, various types of sea fish, squid, snails, and clams are all available, often sold right after being brought in from the morning's fishing boats, ensuring they are always fresh and delicious. 

Some stalls even offer to cook the seafood on the spot, which is very convenient for customers who want to eat immediately. If you plan to buy seafood to take home, it's best to go early in the morning for the best quality and to bring a cooler or styrofoam box to keep it fresh for the journey.

Traditional Cakes and Sweets

Besides sauces and seafood, traditional cakes are another popular gift item for visitors. A must-try is Ba Lieu Sesame Rice Crackers (bánh khô mè Bà Liễu) - a crispy, fragrant, and mildly sweet treat that keeps well and is perfect for taking home. 

The market also sells rustic Central Vietnamese cakes like bánh ram ít, bánh bột lọc, and bánh bèo. However, these are best enjoyed on the spot or on the same day. For gifts, it's better to stick to dried cakes, or those sold in boxes or vacuum-sealed packages for easy preservation.

Clothing, Footwear and Bags

Not just a food paradise, Han Market is also an ideal shopping spot for fashion. Here, you can find a wide variety of clothing, from everyday wear and traditional ao dai to fabrics for tailoring. The selection of footwear and bags is also extensive, with beautiful handcrafted items like straw bags and woven baskets being especially popular. 

When shopping, take your time to browse different stalls to compare prices and choose suitable materials. For gifts, simple designs and neutral colors are always a safe and sophisticated choice.

Tips for shopping at Han Market

• Ideal Time to Visit: Go in the morning for the freshest goods, or in the late afternoon for easier bargaining.
• Bargain Skillfully: Always ask for the price beforehand and bargain reasonably, especially for clothing, footwear, and bags.
• Bring Cash: While many stalls now accept bank transfers, cash is still more convenient for quick transactions.
• Watch Your Belongings: The market can be crowded, so be mindful of your wallet, phone, and bags.

If you're looking for a place to buy souvenirs, sample local specialties, or simply experience the vibrant local shopping atmosphere, Da Nang's Han Market is definitely the place to go. A visit here will give you a full taste of the city's lively spirit and leave you with unforgettable memories.

>> For more recommendations on where to shop, visit our Shopping category for learn more