Han Market is the central market, located in the heart of Da Nang city, near the Han River Bridge. Thanks to its convenient location, Han market Da Nang is not only a market for shopping activities but also attract tourists local and abroad when visiting Danang City.
Han Market was named after the Han river and was opened in the early of 1940s during the French occupancy of Da Nang. The French constructed there a big train system called Tourane Marché to transport goods to the main station. As the business grew unceasingly, some Chinese and Vietnamese businessmen decided to build a commercial center around the market with grocery stores, jewelry stores, Chinese traditional pharmacy stores, etc. In 1989, Han market was fully renovated, covering an area of 28,000 square meters including two spacious floors. Nowadays, as the renovation gives the market a vast and refreshing atmosphere, the arrangement of stores inside the market also gives the customers a relaxing feeling when shopping there.
The interesting thing is that local inhabitants used to regard this market as “rich market” because it was extremely popular among the well-off classes of the society. Nowadays, that term is no longer be used as everyone enjoys shopping in this market. There is a diversity of food here ranging from fresh foods (vegetables, fruits, fishes and meats) to clothes which is traded all day long. However, the most special thing to look for at this market is probably fish sauce: the familiar yet unique food of the Central regions Vietnam.
In addition to the variety of choices, Han Market Da Nang also attracts many people by its relatively low prices because it functions as the wholesale market where goods are gathered before being distributed to smaller markets in the province.
Han Market Da Nang is ideal for those looking for some Da Nang’s souvenirs before coming back home. If you are flying overseas, you may be limited to take dried food with you but if you have more time to spare in Vietnam, stock up on fresh fruits and local snacks. Some specialties that can be found in Han market include Ly Son garlic, Chili paste, dried rice crackers, dried squids. At the front of the market are fruit stalls, abundant with tropical option from bananas to jack fruits.
The best times to visit Han Market Da Nang are between 06:00 and 11:00 and then after 16:00, when the market is bursting with activity rather than asleep. If you are coming from Hoi An, the bus stops straight outside, otherwise it is just a short walk from Han River bridge or Dragon Bridge. One can easily reach Han market by taxi or motor taxi. If you stay at one of the beach resorts on Da Nang coast, a trip to Han market would cost $5/one way by taxi.
