What to Buy at Han Market in Da Nang: Must-Have Souvenirs

Bustling with colors, aromas, and local charm, Han Market in Da Nang is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic Vietnamese flavors, handicrafts, and cultural experiences. From fermented sauces and dried seafood to custom-tailored Ao Dai, the market showcases the vibrant heritage of Central Vietnam. Conveniently located near Da Nang Cathedral, Dragon Bridge, and Bach Dang Walking Street, it’s the perfect starting point for a city exploration. With Vietpower Travel, you can enjoy a curated itinerary that blends shopping, food tasting, and sightseeing into one unforgettable day.

1. Why Han Market is a Must-Visit Shopping Destination

Historical & Cultural Background

Han Market is more than a shopping venue – it’s a living piece of Da Nang’s history.
From 1888 until 2000, the market was directly connected to the city’s trade network through the Han Market Ferry, a key transport route that carried goods across the Han River long before the first bridges were built. This daily ferry service linked farmers, fishermen, and merchants, making the market a hub for both commerce and community life.

During the French colonial period, the market became even more integral to Da Nang’s economy with the construction of the Tourane-Marché railway station. This station, built near the market’s location, allowed goods from the central highlands and surrounding provinces to be transported directly to Han Market. Though the station no longer exists, its heritage remains part of the market’s enduring charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s early days as a bustling trading port.

Convenient Location & Access

Situated at 119 Tran Phu Street in the heart of Da Nang, it sits at the intersection of several main roads – Tran Phu, Bach Dang, and Hung Vuong – making it effortless to reach from anywhere in the city.

Travelers can arrive by:

• Motorbike: Easy to rent in Da Nang, offering flexibility and low cost.
• Taxi or ride-hailing apps: Comfortable and widely available.
• Walking: Perfect for those staying in the city center.

2. Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit 

• Official Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily. Some food stalls stay open until around 10:00 PM, though most souvenir and specialty goods stalls close earlier.

Best Time Slots for Visiting

• 6:00 – 8:00 AM: Experience the authentic local rhythm. This is when fresh seafood, vegetables, and breakfast dishes are at their best, and the crowd is mostly local shoppers.
• 9:00 – 11:00 AM: The market is at full swing, with every stall open and buzzing with activity. Ideal for souvenir hunting and exploring all product categories.
• After 4:00 PM: The heat eases, and the market regains energy with street food vendors and a pleasant early evening atmosphere, great for combining shopping with snacks.

Times to Avoid

• After 7:00 PM: Many stalls have already closed, and the variety of goods drops significantly.
• Rainy Season (October – December): The market can be less lively due to damp weather and fewer fresh products available.

3. What to Buy at Han Market Da Nang

Fermented Sauces & Local Condiments

For travelers wanting to take home the rich flavors of Central Vietnam, fermented sauces are among the most sought-after products.

• Popular varieties: Mam nem (fermented anchovy sauce), mam ruoc (shrimp paste), mackerel sauce.
• Price range: 50,000 – 120,000 VND/jar (2–5 USD), depending on size and quality.
• Best-selling areas: Ground floor, rows near the Tran Phu entrance and middle section facing Bach Dang Gate.
•  These sauces are vacuum-sealed or packed in sturdy jars, perfect for transport, and pair beautifully with dishes like boiled pork rolls or grilled pork vermicelli.

Dried Seafood Delicacies

A must-visit section for food lovers, Han Market’s dried seafood area is vibrant with color and aroma.

• Highlights: Tamarind squid (mực rim me), dried shrimp (tôm khô), shredded fish (cá chỉ vàng tẩm ớt), small crabs simmered in chili sauce.
• Price range: 200,000 – 500,000 VND/kg (8–20 USD).
• Best-selling areas: Ground floor, left wing from Tran Phu entrance, and rows near Hung Vuong Gate.
• Free food preservative testing stations: Small booths inside the seafood zone allow customers to check for preservatives, adding extra confidence in product quality – a service rarely seen in other markets in Da Nang.

Vietnamese Handicrafts & Home Décor

This section offers a rich selection of handmade items that embody Vietnam’s craft traditions.

• Items to look for: Woven baskets, rattan handbags, bamboo trays, straw sandals, placemats, and jewelry boxes.
• Price range: 80,000 – 300,000 VND/item (3–12 USD), depending on size and craftsmanship.
• Best-selling areas: First floor, central aisle and corners facing Hung Vuong Gate.
• Sedge & rattan from Phu Vinh: Products from this 400-year-old craft village in Chuong My are valued for their durability.
• Kim Son sedge from Ninh Binh: Recognized for tight, elegant weaving patterns, adding both beauty and function to each piece.

Fabrics & Tailored Ao Dai

For fashion lovers, the fabric section is a paradise.

• Items to look for: Silk, brocade, lace fabrics, ready-made Ao Dai, and tailored Ao Dai.
• Price range:
  • Fabrics: 150,000 – 350,000 VND/meter (6–14 USD).
  • Ready-made Ao Dai: 300,000 – 500,000 VND (12–20 USD).
• Best-selling areas: First floor, right-hand side from Tran Phu Gate.
• One-hour custom Ao Dai tailoring service: Skilled tailors can measure, cut, and finish a personalized Ao Dai within 60 minutes – perfect for travelers with tight itineraries.

 

Local Snacks & Sweet Treats

An ideal choice for gifting or enjoying on the go.

• Popular items: Mango candy, sesame cakes (bánh khô mè), cashew nuts, coconut candy, dried jackfruit.
• Price range: 50,000 – 200,000 VND/pack (2–8 USD).
• Best-selling areas: Ground floor, middle rows near Bach Dang entrance and corner stalls along Tran Phu side.
•  All are neatly packed for easy carrying and have a long shelf life.

Coffee & Spices (Semantic: Vietnamese coffee beans, cinnamon, lemongrass)

For those wanting to recreate Vietnamese flavors back home, Han Market offers quality coffee and spices.

• Products to try: Arabica & Robusta beans, cinnamon sticks, star anise, lemongrass powder, turmeric.
• Price range:
  • Coffee: 120,000 – 250,000 VND/kg (5–10 USD).
  • Spices: 30,000 – 70,000 VND/pack (1.2–3 USD).
• Best-selling areas: Ground floor, near Hung Vuong entrance, often beside dried goods stalls.
• These products often come from Vietnam’s Central Highlands and northern provinces, ensuring authentic flavor and aroma.

4. Tips for Smart Shopping at Han Market

1. Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes
   • Light, breathable clothing; sneakers or sandals.
   • Avoid: High heels or flimsy slippers, as floors can be slippery and aisles narrow.
2. Bring Enough Cash
   • Most stalls accept cash only — no cards or bank transfers.
   • Carry small denominations (10,000–50,000 VND) for faster transactions.
3. Bargain Politely
   • Tourist prices can be 20–50% higher.
   • Start about 40–50% lower than the quoted price, then adjust based on the seller’s reaction.
4. Keep Personal Belongings Secure
   • Use front-facing bags or zipped pockets.
   • Be extra careful on weekends and public holidays when it’s crowded.
5. Choose Stalls with Visible Pricing
   • Helps avoid misunderstandings and makes price comparison easier.
6. Try Clothes Before Buying
   • Clothing sizes follow Asian measurements, often smaller than Western sizing.
   • Fitting rooms are usually located at the back or inside clothing stalls (first floor).
7. Wholesale Supply Hub
    
   • Han Market also acts as a wholesale supplier for other retail markets in Da Nang, which explains the wide product variety and competitive pricing.

5. Where to Eat Inside Han Market

• Tip: Walk around first, check menus and prices, and choose stalls where locals are eating — a good sign of quality and fair pricing.

6. Attractions Near Han Market to Combine in Your Itinerary

Da Nang Cathedral (Rooster Church)

• Address: 156 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau 1 Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.
• Distance from Han Market: ~300 meters (4-minute walk).
• Highlights:
  • Iconic pastel pink façade and French Gothic-style architecture.
  • 70-meter bell tower topped with a rooster-shaped weather vane.
  • Peaceful courtyard and stained-glass windows perfect for photos.
• Best time to visit: Morning for softer light and fewer crowds.

Dragon Bridge

• Address: Vo Van Kiet Street (crossing Han River), Da Nang.
• Distance from Han Market: ~950 meters (3-minute drive or 12-minute walk).
• Highlights:
  • Majestic 568-meter steel bridge shaped like a dragon from the Ly Dynasty.
  • Nighttime LED light shows with changing colors.
  • Fire and water performance every Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday at 9:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: Evening for lights, weekends for the show.

Bach Dang Walking Street

• Address: Bach Dang Street, along the west bank of Han River, Da Nang.
• Distance from Han Market: ~200 meters (2–3 minute walk).
• Highlights:
  • Riverside promenade lined with cafés, snack stalls, and flower gardens.
  • Open-air art displays and seasonal events.
  • Scenic view of Han River Bridge and boats.
• Best time to visit: Sunset to evening for a breezy, lively atmosphere.

7. Conclusion

Whether you’re shopping for unique souvenirs, tasting local specialties, or exploring nearby attractions, Han Market in Da Nang offers an immersive cultural experience you won’t find anywhere else. Its mix of historic charm, diverse products, and central location makes it a highlight of any Da Nang trip. Let Vietpower Travel guide you through the market’s hidden gems and nearby sights, ensuring your visit is rich in flavor, history, and authentic local moments