Long Bien Market, Hanoi - Hanoi Market
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Long Bien Market Hanoi

4.2
·1k reviews·, Vietnam

A bustling, authentic agricultural market near the Long Bien Bridge, offering a vibrant glimpse into Hanoi's daily life and stunning photo ops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Freshest produce & local buzz

CrowdMedium
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Long Bien Market, Hanoi - Hanoi Market

Long Bien Market Hanoi

Best Time

Early mornings

Freshest produce & local buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling, authentic agricultural market near the Long Bien Bridge, offering a vibrant glimpse into Hanoi's daily life and stunning photo ops.

4.2
(1k reviews)

"Embrace the chaos and witness the heart of Hanoi's food trade at this incredible market!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Go early for authenticity

Arrive before 7 AM to see the market at its most vibrant and less crowded. :sunriseovermountains:

Watch your step!

It's a busy place! Be aware of your surroundings and vendors' space to avoid being in the way. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Produce Stalls

Vibrant Produce Stalls

Throughout the market

A kaleidoscope of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. A true feast for the eyes and senses.

Early Morning Buzz

Early Morning Buzz

Main market area

Witness the heart of Hanoi's food trade as vendors unload and sell their goods. Pure, unadulterated local life.

Mop Grass Fields

Mop Grass Fields

Near Long Bien Bridge

Iconic fields of white 'mop grass' offer a unique backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chaos

Long Bien Market is a sensory explosion! Expect crowds, narrow paths, and lively vendors. Go early for the freshest produce and a more authentic experience before the peak tourist rush. Be prepared for a bit of jostling.

Best Time for Photos

For stunning photos, especially of the 'mop grass' (co lau), aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light is magical, but be mindful of your surroundings and vendors' space.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Freshest produce & local buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First time mo ba pumunta ng Hanoi? Here’s my 2D1N itinerary #vietnam #hanoi #travelph
@arshielife
133.2K likes • 2.5M views

Go early for authenticity

Arrive before 7 AM to see the market at its most vibrant and less crowded. :sunriseovermountains: Reddit

Watch your step!

It's a busy place! Be aware of your surroundings and vendors' space to avoid being in the way. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Cỏ lau ở đê Long biên trắng muốt đẹp lắm, nhưng các bạn phải chú ý quan sát khi ngồi và nằm xuống nha #colau #longbien #tipchupanh
@theanh.magic
125.7K likes • 3.4M views
Top 10 things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam 🇻🇳📍 - 1, Watch the train pass on train street - 2, Cafe Giang’s Egg Coffee - The birthplace of the iconic coffee! ☕️ 3, Tran Quoc Pagoda - The oldest Buddhist te...
@lizeandtom
89.5K likes • 1.8M views

Capture the 'mop grass'

Visit the fields near the bridge for unique photos, but be respectful of the area. :camerawithflash: TikTok

Bargain respectfully

Prices are generally low, but a little friendly negotiation is part of the experience. :moneywithwings:

reddit.com

Long Bien market in Hanoi last night

Tips

from all over the internet

Go early for authenticity

Arrive before 7 AM to see the market at its most vibrant and less crowded. :sunriseovermountains: Reddit

Watch your step!

It's a busy place! Be aware of your surroundings and vendors' space to avoid being in the way. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Capture the 'mop grass'

Visit the fields near the bridge for unique photos, but be respectful of the area. :camerawithflash: TikTok

Bargain respectfully

Prices are generally low, but a little friendly negotiation is part of the experience. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Long Bien Market is a vibrant, authentic experience that immerses visitors in Hanoi's daily life. While its chaotic energy and crowded nature can be overwhelming for some, many appreciate the raw, unfiltered glimpse into local commerce and the stunning photo opportunities, especially at the 'mop grass' fields. It's a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Hanoi.

"As local as it gets! From reviews, it says that the market comes alive between 11pm - 6am. I think we were the only tourists at 3am that day. Insane experience.

TBH, I don't think you need a local guide, we survived with the Google Translate & calculator app on our phone and the sellers were generally friendly and helpful, of course there were some rude ones but that won't spoil the experience. Most were selling wholesale but if you ask nicely, they would give in to sell 1-2kg at retail prices. I noticed the ones near the main gate entrance are likely to sell retail than the ones at the back.

Basically all types of seasonal fruit from Vietnam, they do have imported fruits though. Do go here for the Lychees, Dragon fruit, Mangos, Durians, Avocados and more!"

N.a.d S

"This is a market that starts at dawn. There are all kinds of goods, from fruits, vegetables, flowers, fish, meat. Fruits are the main trade. If you are thinking of visiting this place, visit between 3 and 4 o'clock in the morning. By 6 o'clock in the morning, many shops will already be closed. It is a market worth visiting to feel the dynamism of Hanoi. After visiting, go across the street to eat pho. Overall, super great!"

Jiyoon Kim

"The quality and price can’t be beat. But you should come with a local because no one can understand English. I braved the rain and muddy pavements for 3 kilos of nectarines and 2 huge mangoes. Add to that - rude merchants, I will probably not return haha."

Xavier Dy

What People Like

Authentic local atmosphere
Vibrant produce displays
Unique photo spots

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Can be chaotic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Long Bien Market by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or local bus. It's located near the historic Long Bien Bridge. Many travelers find Grab to be the most convenient option for navigating Hanoi's traffic. TikTok

Yes, several local bus routes stop near Long Bien Market. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Long Bien district. It's a good budget-friendly option. TikTok

From the Old Quarter, a Grab or taxi is a quick option, usually taking around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are also available but may take longer. TikTok

If you're staying very close to the Long Bien Bridge, walking is possible. However, for most visitors coming from the Old Quarter, it's a bit too far to walk comfortably. TikTok

Yes, there are designated parking areas for motorbikes and some limited parking for cars. Be prepared for a busy parking situation, especially during peak hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Long Bien Market is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander through the stalls. Reddit

The market is open 24/7, but it's most active and vibrant in the early morning hours (around 3 AM to 7 AM) when produce is being unloaded and sold. Reddit

For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for sunrise or early morning. The 'mop grass' fields near the Long Bien Bridge are particularly photogenic during these times. TikTok

You can do a quick walk-through in about an hour, but to truly experience its atmosphere and see the 'mop grass,' allocate at least 2-3 hours. Reddit

The market is vast, with multiple entry points. The main entrances are usually bustling with activity. Simply follow the flow of people and vendors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'mop grass' fields near the Long Bien Bridge are incredibly popular for photos, especially at sunrise. The bustling produce stalls also offer vibrant scenes. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the 'mop grass' fields. Don't forget a spare battery! :camerawithflash: TikTok

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid blocking pathways. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas of Hanoi. It's best to avoid flying drones to prevent any issues with local authorities. TikTok

Early morning (sunrise) and late afternoon (golden hour) offer the most beautiful light for photography. The 'mop grass' is especially stunning during these times. TikTok

🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining

Yes, you can find various local food stalls within and around the market offering delicious Vietnamese street food. It's a great place to try authentic flavors. Reddit

Expect a wide variety of fresh fruits, local snacks, noodle dishes like pho, and other Vietnamese specialties. It's a fantastic place to sample local cuisine. Reddit

While the market is heavily focused on fresh produce, you can find some vegetarian-friendly dishes like noodle soups and fresh fruit. It's good to ask about ingredients. Reddit

Generally, yes. Look for stalls that are busy with locals, as this often indicates freshness and good quality. Use your best judgment. Reddit

Freshly squeezed fruit juices, local pastries, and simple noodle dishes are popular choices. Don't be afraid to try something new! Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Long Bien Market can be an exciting, albeit chaotic, experience for families. The vibrant colors of the produce and the sheer volume of activity can captivate children's attention. However, it's crucial to keep a close eye on little ones due to the crowds and narrow pathways. Consider visiting during slightly less peak hours, perhaps mid-morning, to reduce the intensity. TikTok

Look for opportunities to try local snacks together, like fresh fruit or simple pastries. The 'mop grass' fields, if accessible and safe, can also be a fun spot for kids to explore briefly. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Long Bien Market is a dream. The early morning light offers incredible opportunities to capture the essence of local life, from vendors setting up shop to the vibrant displays of produce. The 'mop grass' fields near the Long Bien Bridge are a must-visit for unique, atmospheric shots. TikTok

Bring a versatile lens and be prepared to shoot in varying light conditions. Remember to be respectful when photographing people; always ask for permission. The market's dynamic nature provides endless subjects, from close-ups of exotic fruits to wide shots of the bustling activity. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of Hanoi's Produce Trade

Long Bien Market is not just a tourist spot; it's a vital hub for Hanoi's food supply chain. Operating around the clock, its peak activity occurs in the pre-dawn hours. This is when farmers and wholesalers converge to trade vast quantities of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. For visitors, arriving early offers a glimpse into this authentic, bustling ecosystem, far removed from the typical tourist trail. You'll witness the raw energy of commerce and the dedication of the people who keep the city fed. Reddit

Beyond the produce, the market also features stalls selling flowers, seafood, and various household goods. The sheer scale and variety are impressive. Navigating the narrow aisles requires a certain level of awareness, as it's a working market where efficiency is key. Embrace the chaos; it's part of the unique charm of Long Bien Market. Reddit

Pro-tip: While the market is always active, the early morning (3 AM - 7 AM) is when you'll see the most intense activity and the freshest goods. It's an experience that truly immerses you in local life. Reddit

Capturing the Iconic 'Mop Grass'

One of the most visually striking and Instagrammable features near Long Bien Market is the fields of 'mop grass' (cỏ lau). These tall, white, fluffy grasses grow along the banks of the Red River, particularly near the Long Bien Bridge. They create a surreal, almost ethereal landscape, especially when bathed in the soft light of sunrise or sunset. TikTok

Photographers and visitors flock to these fields for unique portrait shots and scenic views. The best time to capture their beauty is during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The low-angled light illuminates the grass, giving it a magical glow. Be prepared for other visitors, as this spot has gained significant popularity through social media. TikTok

When visiting the mop grass fields, remember to be respectful of the environment and the local farmers who may be working in the area. Tread carefully and avoid damaging the grass. It's a natural wonder that offers a beautiful contrast to the urban bustle of the market. TikTok

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