From local markets to cultural and tourism destinations
Rustic cuisine is becoming a cultural point that attracts visitors to local markets, opening up a distinctive tourism development direction for Hai Phong.
Cultural meeting places in everyday markets
As late afternoon sets in and the sunlight gradually fades behind rows of buildings, Cat Bi Market in Hai An Ward begins to “wake up,” with hundreds of snacks attracting diners from near and far.
Ngo Thu Ha, a visitor from Phu Tho, could not hide her surprise when trying a cassava cake costing just VND 5,000 but having an impressive flavor. For her, the experience at Cat Bi Market was not simply about filling her stomach but also about experiencing firsthand the rhythm of life and culinary culture of the port city.
Cat Bi Market is not the only example. In Hai Phong, traditional markets have long been the “soul” of each residential area.
Amid the current trend toward experiential tourism, tapping into these unique local values is becoming a strategic “key” to opening up new room for local economic development. Markets are no longer simply places supplying essential goods but are emerging as destinations with great potential for culture and cuisine, helping increase the value of the city’s tourism sector.
To turn traditional markets into tourist destinations, the City People's Committee has recently issued a plan to develop the market system across the city for the 2026 – 2030 period.
In particular, the city aims for 100% of stalls at all markets to offer cashless payment, promoting civilized digital commerce.
Restructuring and selection of typical models
The restructuring of Hai Phong’s market system is closely linked to the city’s orientation toward urban tourism development. The city has set out a clear classification roadmap, focusing resources on destinations with breakthrough potential.
According to Mai Xuan Thang, Chairman of the Hai Phong Tourism Association, Co Dao Market, located in the central area, has major advantages in terms of location and culinary identity, making it highly suitable for development into an attractive cultural and culinary destination at night.
Meanwhile, Cat Bi Market, already known as a “street food paradise,” should be developed into a modern tourism market model combining civilized shopping with distinctive street experiences.
In the suburban areas, there are Nui Deo and Tong markets in Thuy Nguyen, Vinh Bao Market in Vinh Bao Commune, Doi Market in Tien Lang Commune, Kho Do Market in Thanh Dong Ward, Ve Market in Ninh Giang Commune and Com Market in Thanh Ha Commune. With their long-established trading activities and distinctive regional characteristics, including hundreds of local specialties, these markets will be ideal pieces to connect with experiential cultural tourism tours in the suburbs.
Transforming trading spaces into diverse experience destinations will not only meet residents’ shopping needs but also offer an attractive invitation for visitors to extend their stays. When traditional markets put on a new look, becoming more professional while preserving the essence of local culture, the image of Hai Phong’s land and people will be spread more widely than ever.
THU HANG