Thuong Market – The Bustling Central Market of Bac Giang

Thuong Market (Chợ Thương) – the largest central market in Bac Giang, located on Cho Thuong Street, between Quang Trung and Ly Thai To streets. This was the only Grade-I market in the former Bac Giang Province (now part of Bac Ninh Province), making it a convenient spot for shopping and experiencing the daily rhythm of the locals.

History and Features

• The market is named after the Thuong River that flows through Bac Giang.
• It was the only Grade-I market in the former Bac Giang Province, directly managed by the province.
• The market primarily caters to the daily trading needs of local residents and neighboring areas.

What to Buy at Thuong Market

• Fresh foods, vegetables, and fruits.
• Clothing, fabrics, household goods, and sundries.
• Bac Giang specialties such as Luc Ngan lychees (in season, around June), Chu noodles (mỳ Chũ), and Ke rice crackers (bánh đa Kế).

What to Eat at Thuong Market

• Affordable breakfast stalls offering dishes like rice noodles (bún), pho, and steamed rice rolls (bánh cuốn) around the market area.
• Street snacks and quick bites catering to market-goers.

How to Get There

• The market is centrally located; taking a taxi or motorbike taxi from the Bac Giang railway station or bus station takes only a few minutes.
• From Hanoi, it takes about 1 hour by car via the Hanoi – Bac Giang Expressway.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Morning is the busiest time and offers the freshest produce.
• Ask for prices before buying, especially for packaged specialties.
• Keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas.
• You can combine your trip with a stroll along the Thuong River or a visit to historical sites in Bac Giang.

Reference Prices

• Early-season lychees: around 40,000–80,000 VND/kg in late May – early June.
• Peak-season lychees: around 15,000–30,000 VND/kg from mid-June to July.
• Chu noodles: around 35,000–50,000 VND/kg.

Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the season and individual stalls.

Best Time to Visit

• The market is open from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily; it is liveliest and has the freshest goods in the morning.
• If you want to buy lychees, visit from late May to late July, with the peak season running from roughly June 10 to July 30.
• The market gets very crowded during the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), so it is best to go early and watch your belongings carefully.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Payment: Many vendors accept QR bank transfers, but it is still advisable to bring some small-denomination cash for breakfast stalls and snacks.
• Restrooms: If needed, you can use the restrooms at eateries or cafes on the streets surrounding the market.
• Language: Vendors speak Vietnamese and rarely speak English, so consider using a translation app if traveling with foreign visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Thuong Market open?

The market usually operates from around 6:00 to 18:00, being busiest in the morning.

Where is Thuong Market located?

The market is located on Cho Thuong Street in the center of Bac Giang, between Quang Trung and Ly Thai To streets.

What specialties can you buy at Thuong Market?

You can find Chu noodles, Ke rice crackers, and Luc Ngan lychees in the summer.

See More

• Pa Co Market
• Vinh Market
• Muong Thanh Market