Encountering a Strange Creature at Hanoi Morning Market

Encountering a Strange Creature at Hanoi Morning Market

Speaking of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam that still retains its classic charm and bustling life every morning, Hanoi's morning market is one place I, mr.hotsia, must say "don't miss." Because this is not just an ordinary market, but a vibrant area full of local life, traditional ways, and importantly, the chance to encounter what I call a "strange creature" right here at this market!

Hanoi Morning Market, locally known as “Chợ Đồng Xuân” (Dong Xuan Market), is located in the historic old quarter in the heart of Hanoi city. The market opens from early dawn until late morning. It is bustling with locals, tourists, and vendors selling fresh produce, dried goods, local food, and a variety of fruits energetically.

I, mr.hotsia, arrived at the market early in the morning and wandered through it. The aroma of authentic Vietnamese food like pork rice porridge, Vietnamese baguette, or the fragrant grilled button squid made me stop at almost every stall to taste. Then I came across the “strange creature” I mentioned — a sea creature I had never seen before in any Vietnamese market or anywhere else in Asia. It is a type of seafood that the vendor said is "very delicious" and is called “button squid” (sometimes also called giant squid). It has a strange shape, a rough skin covered with bumps, and some have beautiful colors that made me take out my camera to capture it.

I tried ordering grilled button squid for breakfast. I usually like trying new things, and this place did not disappoint. The hot grilled button squid smelled of Vietnamese spices, seasoned with fresh chili, garlic, and a special dipping sauce recommended by the vendor. The taste was sweet and tender with a crunchy texture, very enjoyable to chew. It was an unforgettable experience.

Besides the button squid, Hanoi Morning Market is full of many unusual and interesting foods, such as Vietnamese chicken biryani with tender chicken and fragrant spiced broth, or local desserts made from sticky rice and young coconut. I have written about these in an article.Traveling HanoiThis market is perfect for those who want to truly experience the real life of Hanoi people.

Life and Bustle of the Morning Market

Hanoi Morning Market is not just about food; it is a true reflection of the local lifestyle here. I, mr.hotsia, have observed vendors selling fresh vegetables and fish at this market for many years. Every morning, they arrive as early as 4 a.m. to negotiate prices and prepare goods for the early customers. This market is like the vital heart of the Hanoi community that still lives traditionally.

Here you will see vendors wearing traditional Vietnamese conical hats (Nón lá) loudly calling customers, children playing, and merchants trying to attract buyers to their stalls. I often enjoy sitting with a strong Vietnamese coffee while watching this way of life. It is a simple atmosphere full of vibrant energy.

Easy Travel to Hanoi Morning Market

For tourists planning to visit Hanoi Morning Market, getting there is not difficult. I, mr.hotsia, recommend staying in the Phố cổ (Old Quarter) area, which is the historic center of Hanoi and close to the market. It is convenient to travel and offers many affordable accommodations if you want to try.Backpacking in HanoiThere are also some good accommodations to choose from.

If coming from Noi Bai International Airport, I recommend taking bus number 17, which is an economical and fairly punctual option. Although it may be a bit slow, it is more worthwhile than taxis or vans, which are expensive and sometimes get stuck in traffic jams as well.

Connecting Experiences and Trips in Northern and Southern Vietnam

Many people who travel to Vietnam often start from Ho Chi Minh City. I, mr.hotsia, have recommended in an articleBuying Tours in Ho Chi Minh Citythat if you want to make the most of Southern Vietnam, you should buy tours from Ho Chi Minh City and then travel north to Hanoi later. Hanoi is the capital city full of charm and more interesting history than Ho Chi Minh City, which I once described as somewhat like the Pattaya of Vietnam.Ho Chi Minh Travel Informationwhich I wrote to help understand this context well.

If you have enough time, after visiting Hanoi, don't forget to stop by Cao Dai Temple, a very interesting new religion that I have written about in an article.Cao Dai Templeto complete your travel experience in Northern Vietnam.

Summary of Impressions from Hanoi Morning Market

For me, mr.hotsia, Hanoi Morning Market is not just a market selling ordinary food or fresh goods. It is a destination that lets me experience the real life of Vietnamese people, taste local food unlike anywhere else, and encounter new things that make this trip more meaningful.

If you are planning to visit Hanoi, don't forget to stop by and experience the morning at this market. I guarantee you will encounter the strange creature at Hanoi Morning Market and capture unique atmosphere photos to take home.

For those interested in following mr.hotsia's travel experiences, don't forget to watch the videoEncountering a Strange Creature at Hanoi Morning Marketthat I recorded. I guarantee you will see the atmosphere and that strange creature clearly.