1. What are the most popular shopping areas in Bac Ninh?
1. Dai Phuc Shopping Center: This is the largest shopping center in Bac Ninh, offering a variety of local and international brands, as well as entertainment facilities such as a cinema and an indoor amusement park.
2. Dinh Cau Market: This traditional market is a favorite among locals for its variety of fresh produce, street food stalls, and cheap clothing and household items.
3. Le Thanh Tong Street: This busy street is known for its many shops selling traditional handicrafts, such as lacquerware, ceramics, and silk products.
4. Vincom Plaza Bac Ninh: The first modern shopping mall in Bac Ninh, this upscale complex offers a mix of luxury and mid-range fashion brands, as well as restaurants and a supermarket.
5. Luong Ngoc Quyen Night Market: Located in the heart of Bac Ninh city, this night market comes alive in the evening with street food vendors selling local delicacies and small shops selling souvenirs.
6. Hung Temple Festival Market: During the annual Hung Temple Festival in April, this market becomes the center of activity with various stalls selling local specialties and handicrafts.
7. Lotte Mart Bac Ninh: Another modern shopping mall option in Bac Ninh, offering a wide range of products including groceries, electronics, household items and more.
8. Nam Son Plaza Complex: This commercial complex includes a shopping center, trade fair area, hotel, movie theater and restaurants catering to all kinds of shoppers.
9. Giang Vo Industrial Zone: Located in Tien Du district on National Highway 1A towards Hanoi City from Bac Ninh City Centre; this industrial zone features factories manufacturing goods like shoes/clothing for supply to Singapore markets etc.
10. Online Shopping Platforms: With the rise of e-commerce popularity in Vietnam, online shopping platforms like Lazada.vn or Shopee.vn are also popular options for shoppers in Bac Ninh.
2. How would you describe the overall shopping experience in Bac Ninh?
The overall shopping experience in Bac Ninh is vibrant and diverse. There are a variety of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, and small specialty stores scattered throughout the city. As one of the oldest trading centers in Vietnam, Bac Ninh offers a unique blend of traditional and modern shopping options.
3. What types of products can you find in Bac Ninh?
In Bac Ninh, you can find a wide range of products including traditional crafts, textile and clothing, pottery, furniture, electronics, fresh produce, and local delicacies such as Nem Chua (fermented pork rolls) and Phu The cake (a traditional wedding cake). The city is also known for its high-quality handmade products such as lacquerware, ceramics, and woodcarvings.
4. What are some popular markets in Bac Ninh?
Some popular markets in Bac Ninh include the Dong Khe market, which is famous for its fresh produce and Vietnamese street food; Cho Xuan market with a wide selection of textiles and clothing; Hoang Mai Market known for its pottery products; and Phu Luu handicrafts market where visitors can find a variety of handmade goods made by skilled artisans.
5. Are there any shopping areas or districts in Bac Ninh that are worth visiting?
Yes, there are several shopping areas or districts in Bac Ninh that are worth visiting. These include Tien Du district for its handicrafts villages; Vu Nien night market for affordable souvenir shopping; Song Hoai Square for modern shopping centers and restaurants; Kim Dong street for electronics; Thanh Street for fashion items; Van Mon hot spring area for local specialty foods and herbal medicines; Dinh Bang village for lacquerware products; and Tho Ha village for pottery products.
3. Are there any traditional markets or street vendors selling goods in Bac Ninh?
Yes, there are several traditional markets and street vendors selling goods in Bac Ninh. Some popular ones include:
1. Bac Ninh Market: Located in the center of Bac Ninh city, this market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, meat, clothing, household items, and more.
2. Tu Hien Market: This is the largest market in Bac Ninh province and has been operating for over 200 years. It is known for its local specialties such as Nem Chua (fermented pork roll), Mien Dong (glass noodle), and Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls).
3. Dong Ho Village Market: This market takes place on Sundays in the famous Dong Ho Village, known for its traditional folk paintings. Here you can find a range of paintings, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
4. Street vendors along Vu Nang Street: This street is lined with street vendors selling various snacks and desserts such as Xoi Trung (sticky rice with egg), Che Com (sweet rice dessert), Banh Gai (thorn leaf cake), and more.
5. Night Market near Tho Ha Village: Every Saturday evening, a night market is set up near Tho Ha Village where visitors can find various local products such as pottery, silk products, hand-embroidered items, and more.
6. Tao Xanh Organic Market: Held every Sunday morning at Phu Vinh Lake Ecotourism Area, this market offers organic vegetables grown by locals using traditional farming methods.
Note that some markets may be temporarily closed or have limited operations due to COVID-19 restrictions.
4. What types of products can be found at the local markets and shops?
The types of products that can be found at local markets and shops vary depending on the region or country. Some common items include fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs; locally made handicrafts and souvenirs; traditional clothing and accessories; spices and packaged foods; household goods and decor items; handmade jewelry; and artisanal products like honey, cheese, and bread. Additionally, some markets may also have vendors selling prepared food, drinks, or street snacks. In general, local markets tend to showcase a mix of traditional goods and modern products that cater to both tourists and locals.
5. Can you bargain for prices at the markets in Bac Ninh?
Yes, you can negotiate for prices at the markets in Bac Ninh. Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnam, and market vendors are used to it. However, it is important to be polite and respectful while negotiating and to have a good understanding of the local currency and prices before starting the negotiation process. It is also helpful if you know some basic Vietnamese phrases.
6. Is it common for locals to buy goods from street vendors in Bac Ninh?
Yes, it is quite common for locals to buy goods from street vendors in Bac Ninh. Street vendors often offer a variety of items such as food, snacks, clothing, household items, and more at affordable prices. Many locals prefer buying from street vendors because it is convenient, they can bargain for better prices, and the quality of goods is usually good. However, it is always recommended to exercise caution when buying from street vendors as some may sell counterfeit or low-quality products.
7. What are some unique souvenirs or items that can be purchased in Bac Ninh?
1. Handmade Ceramics: Bac Ninh is famous for its traditional ceramic products, which are often decorated with intricate patterns and designs. These make for unique and beautiful souvenirs to bring back home.
2. Dong Ho Paintings: These folk paintings originated in the village of Dong Ho in Bac Ninh and showcase the daily life and traditions of rural Vietnam. They are painted on special paper using natural colors made from earth, trees, and shells.
3. Traditional Silk Products: Silk production is a long-standing tradition in Bac Ninh, and you can find a variety of silk products such as scarves, bags, clothing items, and more in the local markets.
4. Conical Hats: Known as “Non La” in Vietnamese, these iconic hats are handmade by skilled artisans in Bac Ninh using palm leaves and bamboo. They are not only practical for shielding from the sun but also a symbol of Vietnamese culture.
5. Lacquerware: Lacquerware is a traditional craft in Vietnam that involves coating objects with layers of resin made from tree sap to create a durable and glossy surface. In Bac Ninh, you can find lacquerware items such as bowls, plates, trays, vases, and more.
6. Non Nuoc Stone Sculptures: This type of stone is indigenous to the region around Bac Ninh and has been used for centuries to create stunning sculptures of deities, animals, and mythical creatures.
7. Vietnamese Musical Instruments: If you’re a music enthusiast or looking for an unusual souvenir, consider purchasing one of Vietnam’s unique musical instruments such as the dan bau (monochord zither), dan tranh (16-string zither), or dan moi (Jaw harp).
8. Hand-Embroidered Textiles: The skilled women of Bac Ninh are known for their hand embroidery work on various textile products such as tablecloths, pillowcases, and clothing items. These intricate designs make for lovely souvenirs.
9. Hand Fans: In the hot and humid climate of Vietnam, hand fans are not only practical but also beautiful souvenirs to take back home. They come in various materials such as bamboo, silk, and paper and can be intricately decorated with traditional patterns.
10. Local Specialty Foods: Bac Ninh is known for its delicious and unique local dishes such as Banh Cuon Thanh Tri (steamed rice rolls stuffed with meat) and Bun Dau Mam Tom (rice noodles served with fried tofu and shrimp paste). These make for tasty edible souvenirs that you can share with friends and family back home.
8. Are there any popular malls or shopping centers in Bac Ninh?
Yes, the most popular malls and shopping centers in Bac Ninh are:
1. Vincom Plaza Bac Ninh
2. Aeon Mall Ha Dong
3. Big C Bac Ninh
4. Aeon Mall Long Bien
5. Lotte Center Hanoi
6. Mipec Long Bien Shopping Mall
7. Royal City Mall
8. Vincom Mega Mall Times City
9. Times Square Vietnam
10. Savico Megamall Hung Vuong
9. How do prices at local markets compare to those at shopping centers and malls?
Prices at local markets tend to be cheaper compared to those at shopping centers and malls. This is because local markets often sell goods directly from suppliers or small businesses, cutting out the middleman and reducing the cost of goods. Additionally, many items sold at local markets are locally grown or produced, further reducing transportation and other associated costs.
On the other hand, shopping centers and malls typically carry branded and imported products which can be more expensive due to branding and marketing costs. They also have higher operating expenses such as rent and staff salaries, which are factored into the prices of their products.
10. Are there any specific times of year when sales or discounts are common in Bac Ninh’s markets and shops?
It is common for markets and shops in Bac Ninh to offer sales and discounts during major holidays such as Tet (Vietnamese New Year), National Day (September 2nd), Christmas, and other special occasions throughout the year. Additionally, many shops have their own promotional events and sales throughout the year, so it is possible to find deals at any time.
11. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known shopping spots that tourists should visit in Bac Ninh?
There are a few lesser-known shopping spots in Bac Ninh that tourists may want to visit:
1. Bac Ninh Night Market – This market, located near the Kinh Duong Vuong street, is a popular spot for locals to shop for clothing, accessories, and other goods at affordable prices.
2. Hanoi Red River International Trade Village – This large wholesale market is located on the outskirts of Bac Ninh and offers a wide range of products including household items, electronics, and traditional handicrafts.
3. Son Dong Traditional Handicraft Village – This village, located just outside of Bac Ninh city, is known for its production of traditional crafts such as lacquerware, ceramics, and bamboo products. Visitors can purchase these items directly from local artisans.
4. Bach Ma Temple Fair – Held twice a year during the 1st and 15th day of the lunar calendar, this fair offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of traditional goods and souvenirs being sold by local vendors.
5. Kim Son Temple Market – Located within the grounds of Kim Son Ancient Pagoda in Tien Du district, this weekly market sells antiques, handicrafts, and other unique items.
Overall, these hidden gems offer visitors an opportunity to experience local culture and support small businesses while shopping for souvenirs or gifts to take home.
12. How easy is it to find international brands and products in Bac Ninh’s markets and shops?
It can be relatively easy to find international brands and products in Bac Ninh’s markets and shops. There are many supermarkets, department stores, and specialty shops that offer a variety of imported goods from different countries. However, some international brands and products may be limited in availability and selection compared to major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. In addition, the prices of these products may also be higher due to import costs. Overall, while it is possible to find international brands and products in Bac Ninh, it may require some searching and may not have as extensive options as other areas in Vietnam.
13. Are there any cultural etiquette or customs related to shopping at the markets in Bac Ninh?
There are a few cultural etiquette and customs related to shopping at the markets in Bac Ninh, including:1. Bargaining: It is common practice to bargain for goods at the markets in Bac Ninh. However, make sure to do so respectfully and with a smile on your face. You may be able to negotiate a lower price, but remember that the vendors also need to make a living.
2. Pointing: It is considered impolite to point directly at someone or something with your index finger. Instead, use your entire hand or nod your head in the direction of what you are interested in.
3. Removing shoes: When entering shops or homes, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. This shows respect for the space and keeps it clean.
4. Dress modestly: In Vietnam, dressing conservatively is important, especially when visiting temples or pagodas near the markets.
5. Respect personal space: Be conscious of personal space when shopping at markets and avoid crowding others or touching items without permission.
6. Gifting: It is not expected to give gifts to vendors at the market, but if you feel inclined to do so, small souvenirs from your home country are appreciated.
7. Use two hands when exchanging money: When paying for items, use two hands when handing over money as a sign of respect.
8. Accept food and drink offers: If a vendor offers you food or drink while shopping at their stall, it is polite to accept as it shows appreciation for their hospitality.
9. Do not touch animals: Many vendors in the markets sell live animals like fish or birds. It is best not to touch them without permission as this could be considered rude.
10. Stay calm and patient: Markets in Bac Ninh can get crowded and chaotic at times, so it’s important to remain calm and patient while shopping and bargaining.
11. Say thank you: Remember to thank vendors for their time, even if you do not end up purchasing anything from them.
12. Take your trash with you: It is considered impolite to leave your trash behind at the market. Make sure to dispose of it properly or take it with you.
13. Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases like “hello” and “thank you” in Vietnamese can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport with the vendors at the markets.
14. Is it safe to withdraw money from ATMs or exchange currency in the shopping areas of Bac Ninh?
As with any foreign city, it is always recommended to exercise caution when withdrawing money from ATMs or exchanging currency in shopping areas. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to try to use ATMs located within reputable banks or shopping centers. If possible, it may also be wise to exchange currency at a bank instead of on the street.
15. Are credit cards accepted by most shops and vendors, or is cash preferred?
Credit cards are accepted by most shops and vendors, but cash is still preferred in many places. Make sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and transactions at local markets and street vendors.16. Can you recommend any must-try dishes or snacks that can be found at the local markets in Bac Ninh?
Yes, here are a few must-try dishes and snacks that can be found at the local markets in Bac Ninh:
1. Nem Chua: This is a popular fermented pork dish that is commonly found in Bac Ninh’s markets. It is made by mixing minced pork with spices, wrapping it in banana leaves and letting it ferment for a few days.
2. Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls): These crispy fried spring rolls are filled with a mixture of ground pork, vegetables and vermicelli noodles. They are usually served with lettuce leaves, herbs and dipped in nuoc cham (fish sauce).
3. Banh Cuon: This is a steamed rice pancake filled with meat or shrimp, mushrooms, and other ingredients. It is often served with fried shallots and fish sauce for dipping.
4. Banh Khoai: Also known as Vietnamese pancakes or crepes, these savory pancakes are made from rice flour, stuffed with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts, and then pan-fried until crispy.
5. Banh Da Cua: These flat rice noodles are topped with stir-fried crab meat, eggs, herbs and peanuts for a delightful combination of flavors.
6. Mien Luon: This is a popular noodle dish made from glass noodles stir-fried with eel and vegetables.
7. Che Lam: A traditional dessert made from roasted glutinous rice mixed with sugar syrup and molded into balls.
8. Banh Gai: These black sticky rice cakes are filled with mung bean paste before being steamed or boiled.
9. Fried Bananas (Chuoi Chien): Ripe bananas dipped in batter and deep-fried to make delicious fritters often sold by street vendors at the markets.
10. Nom Du Du (Papaya Salad): Shredded green papaya mixed with shrimp, pork slices, herbs and a zesty dressing make for a refreshing salad on a hot day.
17. How would you describe the quality of products sold at the markets compared to those sold at upscale stores?
The quality of products sold at markets can vary depending on the specific market and vendors present. Generally, the products at markets tend to be more fresh, locally sourced, and unique compared to those sold at upscale stores. While both may offer high-quality goods, the products at markets often have a more authentic and artisanal feel. Additionally, the prices at markets are often lower than those found in upscale stores.
18 Available on a budget, what are some affordable yet good quality options for shopping around Bac Ninh?
1. Bac Ninh Center – This shopping mall offers a wide range of shops and stores, from local vendors selling affordable clothes, shoes, and accessories to international brands such as Adidas, Levi’s, and Nike.
2. Dai Dong Tien Market – Known as the largest wholesale market in Bac Ninh, this is the place to find great deals on clothing, electronics, household items, and more.
3. My Dinh Market – Another popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike, My Dinh Market offers a mix of street food stalls and shops selling affordable clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and more.
4. Tran Phu Street – This street is lined with boutiques selling trendy and affordable clothing for men, women, and children.
5. Second-hand Stores – There are various second-hand stores scattered around Bac Ninh that offer good quality items at budget-friendly prices. You can find clothing, shoes, bags, furniture, and more at these stores.
6. Street Vendors – Keep an eye out for street vendors selling handmade items such as traditional handicrafts or clothes at bargain prices.
7. Online Shopping Platforms – With the rise of e-commerce in Vietnam, there are now many online shopping platforms that offer a variety of products at affordable prices. Some popular options include Shopee Vietnam and Lazada Vietnam.
8. Hanoi Weekend Night Market – Just a short distance from Bac Ninh is Hanoi’s famous night market where you can find cheap but good quality souvenirs like Vietnamese silk scarfs or hand-made crafts.
9.Go Dong Clothing Factory Outlet Store- Located in Hanoi near Noi Bai International Airport this factory outlet store offers high-quality clothing with discounted rates year-round.
10.Nguyen Dang Ton Street- Located in nearby Hung Yen Province more than twice bigger compared to Oxford St (UK), Nguyen Dang Ton Street has become known as one of Hanoi’s shopping locations, hash variety of selections from clothing, cosmetics to foods.
19.How do tourists typically travel between different shopping areas and centers around town?
Tourists typically travel between different shopping areas and centers around town using public transportation, such as buses, subways, or trains. They may also use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Some tourists may choose to walk or rent bicycles to explore various shopping areas on foot. In some cities, there may be tourist shuttles or hop-on-hop-off buses that take visitors to popular shopping destinations.
20.What measures have been taken by authorities to ensure safety and hygiene standards within these public areas during the ongoing pandemic?
1. Regular sanitization and disinfection: Public areas are being regularly cleaned, sanitized, and disinfected to prevent the spread of the virus.
2. Mandatory face masks: Wearing face masks has been made mandatory in most public areas to reduce the risk of transmission.
3. Social distancing: The authorities have implemented strict measures to ensure social distancing, such as marking designated spots for queues and limited seating arrangements.
4. Temperature checks: Many public areas, especially in hospitals, airports, and malls, have mandated temperature checks at entry points to detect potential cases of COVID-19.
5. Hand sanitization stations: Hand sanitization stations have been set up at various points in public areas for people to disinfect their hands frequently.
6. Increased ventilation: Ventilation systems are being upgraded or recommended by health experts to improve airflow and reduce the concentration of the virus in closed spaces.
7. Reduced capacity: To maintain social distancing norms, the authorities have limited the number of people allowed in public areas at a given time.
8. Contactless transactions: Many public places are now encouraging digital payments or contactless transactions to reduce physical contact between individuals.
9. Education and awareness campaigns: Public areas are displaying posters, banners, and other visual aids to educate people about safety measures such as hand hygiene, social distancing, and wearing masks.
10. Regular inspections: Local health departments are conducting regular inspections of public areas to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
11. Mandatory screening for employees: Employees working in public places like restaurants or retail shops may undergo regular health screenings to monitor their health status and prevent any potential outbreaks.
12. Closure of high-risk amenities: High-risk amenities such as swimming pools, saunas, playgrounds have been temporarily closed down in many public areas to minimize risks associated with close contact activities.
13. Isolation rooms/areas: In case someone falls sick within a public area, isolation rooms/areas have been designated to isolate the individual and prevent further transmission.
14. Appropriate disposal of used protective gear: Proper disposal of used protective gear such as gloves, masks, tissues, etc., is being enforced in public areas to prevent the spread of infection.
15. Training for staff and employees: Staff and employees working in public areas are being trained on safety measures to protect themselves and others from the virus.
16. Regular testing: Some public places like educational institutions, hospitals, and workplaces may implement regular testing for students or employees to identify potential cases early on.
17. Contact tracing: In case of a confirmed case, contact tracing is carried out to identify individuals who may have come in contact with the infected person in a public area.
18. Surveillance cameras: Many public areas have installed surveillance cameras to monitor crowds and ensure social distancing protocols are being followed.
19. Quarantine facilities: The authorities have set up quarantine facilities in or near public areas for individuals who may need to quarantine due to a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19.
20. Strict monitoring and enforcement: The government has put measures in place to strictly monitor and enforce compliance with safety protocols in public areas. Violators may face penalties or fines for non-compliance.