Can Cau Market, outstanding cultural trait in northwest of Vietnam

Can Cau market in the northwestern province of Lao Cai typifies exceptional cultural features boasting a vibrant vibe of many people from different ethnic minorities gathering to buy, sell, barter, and socialize.

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can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

Can Cau Market is held in Can Cau Commune, Si Ma Cai District which is surrounded by the untouched lush forests and boundless stretches of rice terraced fields clinging to the mountainside, according to Vietnamplus.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

The market, after many years, still retains its unique cultural features.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

The market has long become the symbol of ethnic minorities including Hoa H’mong, Giay, and Dao people.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

It is one of the most fascinating open-air markets in Lao Cai, held on Saturdays and holidays from early morning until noon.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

When coming here, tourists will have the opportunity to get a closer insight into the daily life and the distinctive culture of ethnic people. The market is not only the place of trading but it is also where to find a potential soul mate.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
From the dawn, Can Cau market is packed with sellers and buyers. Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus
can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

The market covers an area of more than one hectare. It mainly sells handcrafted commodities and local specialties such as brocades, herbs, vegetables, embroideries as well as livestock like cows, horses and especially buffaloes.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

For Mong Hoa and Giay people, buffaloes are regarded as an indispensable part of their farming life. Hence, every time go to the market, they want to purchase the best breeds of buffaloes to better serve their farming work.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

Not being commercialized or modernized, the market is a magnetic destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

Visitors can easily catch sight of the scene of minority groups in colorful costumes exchange their items and joyfully chitchat.

can cau market outstanding cultural trait in northwest of vietnam
Photo: Minh Son/ via Vietnamplus

Another aspect reflecting the distinct lifestyle of ethnic minorities here is the local cuisine. Residents and tourists enjoy gathering at culinary areas that serve traditional food such as Pho, vermicelli, sticky rice, corn cakes, and Thang Co, a combination soup of viscera taken from typical livestock such as horses and cows.